Calluses can be thick, hard, and painful. This image displays a callus that has been treated with silver nitrate. This image displays callouses at the tops of both great toes as well as toenail changes from repeated pressure. This image displays callouses on the palms from work involving friction to these areas. Calloses develop wherever the skin is exposed repeatedly to pressure or friction, as displayed on these hands. This image displays callous areas of the upper toes, which are darker in this black patient.
Share |

Callus  Information for adults

Picture of Callus: Calluses can be thick, hard, and painful. Divider line
Calluses can be thick, hard, and painful.
left arrow
right arrow
Self-Care Guidelines
  • Avoidance of the repetitive forces causing calluses, such as altering shoe style, is the best method of prevention.
  • Gentle paring with an emery board or a pumice stone may help to decrease the thickened skin. A soft fabric, such as felt, should be applied after paring to protect the underlying skin. Or, shoe pads that go inside your shoes should be used to help relieve the pressure so foot calluses can heal.
When to Seek Medical Care
Calluses do not require medical intervention, but seek evaluation if they become bothersome. Diabetics should pay careful attention to their feet given the risk of development of diabetic ulcers on the feet.
Prev: Signs and Symptoms | Treatments Your Provider May Prescribe Next:
Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008
skinmatters blog, skin health and skin care advice from experts
skin condition finder, over 170 skin conditions and thousands of medical pictures
ask the doctor, skin care questions from visitors, responses from experts