How Do Podiatrists Remove a Callus?

 A callus is a thickened area of skin that develops as a protective response to repeated friction or pressure. While calluses are often harmless, they can become painful or unsightly if they grow too large or form in sensitive areas, such as the bottom of the feet. Consider seeing a podiatrist if you're experiencing persistent discomfort or irritation from a callus. But how exactly do podiatrists remove a callus? In this article, we'll explore the various methods podiatrists use to remove calluses and the benefits of professional treatment.

What Causes Calluses?

Calluses form when there is constant pressure or friction on a particular skin area, leading to the thickening of the outer layer or epidermis. This is the body's natural way of protecting the skin from damage. Common causes of calluses on the feet include:

• Wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes
• Walking barefoot on hard surfaces
• Specific foot abnormalities, such as bunions or hammertoes
• Excessive walking or standing

While calluses can form anywhere on the feet, they are most commonly found on the heels, balls, and sides of the toes. If left untreated, a callus can become thick, cracked, and painful, making walking difficult or performing daily activities difficult.

Why Should You See a Podiatrist?

While over-the-counter treatments like pumice stones or foot files may help manage calluses, seeing a professional podiatrist is often the best way to ensure safe and effective removal. A podiatrist is a medical professional specializing in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle conditions. They can assess the underlying causes of your callus and offer personalized treatment options.

If you're looking for expert care, a foot clinic in Agoura Hills offers a range of treatments designed to address calluses and ensure the condition is properly managed. But how exactly do podiatrists remove a callus?

Professional Callus Removal Techniques

Podiatrists use several tools and techniques to safely and effectively remove calluses. These methods are tailored to the callus's size, location, and severity. Here are the primary techniques used in professional callus removal:

Debridement (Trimming the Callus)

One of the most common methods for removing a callus is debridement, where the podiatrist carefully trimmed or shaved away the thickened skin. This process uses a sterile surgical scalpel or a specialized instrument called a callus remover. The podiatrist will gently remove the callus's layers, being careful not to cut too deeply into the healthy skin.

Debridement is typically performed in a foot clinic under sterile conditions to prevent infection. This technique removes large or thick calluses and can immediately relieve pain or discomfort.

Use of Specialized Tools

Podiatrists often use specific tools to target calluses more efficiently and precisely. Some of the tools commonly used include:

• Rotary Drills: These are electric-powered devices that help grind away thick skin. They can be adjusted for different speeds to suit the size and hardness of the callus.
• Callus Scrapers: These instruments remove surface layers of skin without causing injury.
• Pumice Stones: Although pumice stones are often used at home, podiatrists use more advanced, professional-grade stones designed for more precise and controlled exfoliation.

Podiatrists often combine these tools with manual techniques to ensure the callus is removed, controlled, and effectively.

Exfoliation and Softening Treatments

Sometimes, podiatrists recommend or apply treatments to soften the callus before removal. This is particularly useful if the callus is hard and resistant to trimming. Softening treatments often involve applying specialized creams, ointments, or gels containing urea or salicylic acid, which help break down thickened skin. These treatments may be applied during the appointment or prescribed for at-home use.

After softening, the podiatrist can proceed with debridement or other removal techniques. Softening the skin also helps reduce the risk of irritation or injury during removal.

Cryotherapy (Cold Therapy)

Sometimes, podiatrists may use cryotherapy, which involves applying frigid temperatures to the callus. This freezes the skin tissue, causing the callus to peel off naturally. While cryotherapy is not as commonly used for calluses as it is for other skin conditions like warts, it can be an option for more persistent or stubborn calluses that do not respond well to different treatments.

This procedure is typically quick and involves minimal discomfort, though some patients may experience temporary redness or swelling in the treated area.

Laser Treatment

For patients with chronic or recurring calluses that do not respond well to conventional treatments, laser treatment can be an option. Laser therapy uses focused light to target the thickened skin, breaking down the callus without damaging surrounding tissues. The treatment is non-invasive and can be performed in a podiatrist's office. Laser therapy is particularly effective for deep calluses that are hard to remove using traditional methods.

Laser treatment also promotes healing, which can help speed up the recovery process after callus removal.

Padding and Footwear Recommendations

While removing the callus is an integral part of treatment, podiatrists often recommend additional strategies to prevent calluses from returning. Proper footwear is key in reducing the friction and pressure that cause calluses. The best podiatrist will evaluate your shoes and suggest modifications or recommend specific types of footwear that offer better support and cushioning.

Additionally, podiatrists may recommend custom orthotics, which are insoles designed to redistribute pressure across the foot, reducing the likelihood of calluses forming in the first place.

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

While calluses are generally not a serious medical concern, they can cause discomfort or become problematic if left untreated. If you notice any of the following, it may be time to visit a podiatrist for professional care:

• Pain or tenderness from the callus
• Cracked or bleeding skin around the callus
• Calluses that are not improving with at-home treatment
• Difficulty walking or standing due to foot discomfort
• Recurring calluses that keep coming back in the same spot

In severe or chronic calluses, a podiatrist will remove the callus and address any underlying conditions contributing to its formation, such as poor posture, abnormal gait, or foot deformities.

Finding the Best Podiatrist

If you're searching for the best podiatrist to address your callus or other foot care needs, it's essential to do some research. Look for a podiatrist specializing in foot care with callus treatment experience. A podiatrist who listens to your concerns, provides a personalized treatment plan, and offers post-care instructions can make a significant difference in achieving the best results.

If you're in Agoura Hills, CA, visiting a foot clinic, Agoura Hills provides you access to skilled professionals who can help you manage and treat foot conditions like calluses. You can enjoy pain-free feet and prevent future foot issues with the proper care.

Conclusion

Callus removal is relatively simple but should be done carefully and professionally to avoid complications. While at-home remedies can help with minor calluses, a podiatrist has the tools and expertise to remove them effectively and prevent them from recurring. Whether through debridement, softening treatments, cryotherapy, or other methods, a podiatrist can relieve you. If you're experiencing foot pain or discomfort due to a callus, consult a podiatrist to explore the best treatment options and get back on your feet quickly.