Callus - also called hard skin or hyperkeratosis - is a broad area of thickened skin that develops in response to repeated pressure or friction. Unlike a corn, a callus has no central core and tends to spread over a larger area. While the body produces callus as a protective response, excessive build-up can become uncomfortable or painful, and in high-risk patients such as diabetics, can lead to more serious complications.
At Deal Podiatry in Deal, Kent, our podiatrists provide thorough, gentle debridement of callus, leaving your feet smooth and comfortable. We also address the underlying causes to prevent recurring build-up.
Where Does Callus Form?
Ball of the foot (metatarsal heads) – The most common site, caused by pressure during walking or standing.
Heels – Dry, cracked heels with hard skin build-up around the rim of the heel.
Big toe joint – Often associated with bunions or hallux rigidus causing altered pressure.
Tops and tips of toes – Especially in patients with hammertoes or clawed toes.
What Causes Callus?
Ill-fitting footwear – Tight or loose shoes that create friction on specific areas of the foot.
Biomechanical abnormalities – Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal gait increase pressure in certain areas.
Occupational or lifestyle factors – Standing for long periods, walking barefoot, or high-impact activities.
Dry skin – Reduced moisture makes skin more prone to thickening.
Age – As we age, the protective fat pads under the foot thin out, increasing pressure on bony prominences.
Our Callus Treatment Approach
Debridement – Using a sterile scalpel, our podiatrists carefully pare down the hard skin, thinning it to a comfortable, healthy level.
Emollient therapy – We recommend and apply appropriate foot creams (such as urea-based moisturisers) to improve skin texture.
Offloading padding – Deflective or redistributive padding reduces pressure on the affected areas between appointments.
Orthotic therapy – Custom or prefabricated insoles can redistribute plantar pressure and significantly reduce callus recurrence.
Footwear review – Advice on appropriate footwear to reduce friction and pressure on vulnerable areas.
Callus in Diabetic Patients
In patients with diabetes, callus requires particular attention. High plantar pressure under a callus can cause tissue breakdown and ulceration. Diabetic patients should have their feet checked regularly by a podiatrist. At Deal Podiatry, we provide specialist diabetic foot assessments and management as part of our comprehensive care.
Home Care Tips
Moisturise daily – Use a urea-based cream on the heels and ball of the foot.
Use a pumice stone gently – After bathing, carefully smooth mild callus; do not use blades at home.
Choose well-fitting footwear – Shoes that fit correctly reduce the pressure that causes callus.
Replace worn insoles – Compressed insoles provide less cushioning and increase pressure on bony areas.
Related Treatments at Deal Podiatry
Callus management forms part of a wider foot care plan. These related treatments at Deal Podiatry can help address the underlying cause and prevent recurrence.
Book Your Callus Treatment at Deal Podiatry
Hard skin doesn't have to be a fact of life. Our podiatrists at Deal Podiatry in Deal, Kent can relieve your discomfort and help prevent callus from returning with personalised treatment plans.