Callus Management is a Job for a Professional

Many people – men, women, and children – will experience a callus at one time or another. Known medically as tyloma or keratoma, a callus is a rough, thick patch of dead skin cells. They tend to occur in areas that bear weight. On the feet, they are most common on the heels and at the ball of the foot. They are related to corns, which develop on the toes are smaller with tough centers and involve more inflammation.

Some people, particularly athletes, actually prefer to have a callus or two, believing that the calluses help them move through their daily activities with feet that are less sensitive to minor discomforts. However, what happens when the calluses themselves are the source of the pain? Chemical options and “surgical” implements are available at pharmacies and big box stores. The internet is full of half-baked at-home remedies. You might be tempted to try one of these at-home solutions, but should you?

The answer to that question is unequivocally no! All of these approaches are ineffective at best, and dangerous at worst. They can create additional problems. You might burn or cut yourself, creating an infection. Removing your callus is a job for a professional. If you suspect that you have developed a callus, the first thing to do is to schedule a visit with a board-certified podiatrist like James M. McKee, DPM, FACFAS. With years of specialized training and experience, your foot doctor is the best-qualified medical professional to diagnose and treat all issues related to the health and well-being of your feet, ankles, and lower legs. They will examine your feet to determine whether your problem is, in fact a callus, and remove it safely and effectively if so.

Are you concerned about a callus or another foot or ankle illness or injury? Schedule an appointment with Dr. James M. McKee in Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A.’s modern, comfortable office on Solomons Island Road. Call our friendly staff at 410-224-4448 or click here to get started today.