Calluses are uncomfortable for both the mind and body. Additionally, they make walking, running, or exercise difficult and could make a person less inclined to wear flip-flops. While calluses can make daily life difficult, a trip to the podiatrist and proper foot care can help keep your feet healthy and happy. Here are a few do's and don't's to follow to keep you on the right track. 

Do: 

Soften the calluses.

When using an over-the-counter or at-home callus remover, make sure to soften the impacted area first. Proper foot care will include soaking the feet, putting a soap or non-harsh remover on the calluses, and rubbing the skin with a podiatrist-recommended file or even a wash cloth. Without softening the skin, you risk injury or not removing enough of the problem. 

Provide padding to sensitive areas.

When calluses are a consistent issue, it can be quite difficult to remove them on your own. In between visits to the podiatrist, it can be helpful to provide your foot or the impacted area with some extra padding and comfort. This can include softer, thicker socks or even callus pads that can be placed right over the hardened skin. 

Don't: 

Cut or shave calluses.

It might feel tempting to take a razor or another sharper object and cut or shave the calluses right off your feet, but that would be a dangerous mistake. While it might seem like the quicker route, it can be difficult to determine where the healthy tissue is, leading you to damage non-callused areas. There's also a chance for infection since you're exposing parts of the skin that were previously covered and protected. 

Only try at-home treatment. 

While pumice stones and callus-remover solutions can be easy to purchase, they don't always solve the issue in the long-term. Proper foot care is important at all times to help mitigate the chances of calluses, but a podiatrist can ensure your feet are healthy, while giving the correct and recommended at-home treatment, so that your feet stay callus-free longer. 

If your feet are plagued by calluses, consult Louise E. Tortora, DPM for relief. Serving residents of Fairfield, CT, and the surrounding areas, this foot doctor treats numerous painful conditions. Patients receive care and treatment efficiently in a warm and comfortable office environment. As a skilled podiatrist, Dr. Tortora also performs surgeries at Bridgeport Hospital, the Smile Center on Park Avenue, and Grant Street. For more about her services, visit their website, or call (203) 254-0093 to schedule an appointment.