Foot Callus - Top 10 Causes and How to Prevent Them
A foot callus is a common concern that many people face, causing discomfort and sometimes pain. These thickened and hardened areas of skin, often found on the soles or sides of the feet, can be both unsightly and bothersome.
Their uncomfortable presence also poses a significant challenge, impacting comfort and mobility. From the discomfort of ill-fitting footwear to the aesthetic concerns they raise, these calluses demand our attention.
This article explores the top causes of these calluses and provides simple yet effective tips on preventing them.
What Causes Calluses on the Foot?
These growths often stem from ill-fitting shoes, causing friction, while high heels and prolonged standing amplify the pressure on specific areas. Awareness of these culprits is key to preventing the discomfort they bring.
Calluses form when pressure and friction repeatedly irritate the same area of your foot, prompting your body to create a thick layer of skin for protection. But they’re not always harmless.
Poor biomechanics, structural deformities, and activity-specific pressure (e.g., ballet, running, or construction work) are common triggers.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, ill-fitting footwear and foot deformities like bunions or hammertoes increase callus formation dramatically. A 2023 study published in the NIH also linked frequent callus development to foot structure abnormalities and gait instability — especially in people with diabetes or neuropathy.
1. Ill-fitting Footwear
One of the primary culprits behind these calluses is ill-fitting footwear. Too tight or loose shoes can create friction and pressure points on your feet, leading to the development of calluses.
To prevent forming a callus on the foot, ensure your shoes offer adequate support and room for comfortable toe movement.
2. High Heels
While high heels may add a touch of style to your outfit, they often come at the cost of foot health. Wearing high heels can pressure certain areas of your feet, forming calluses. Opt for lower heels or flats when possible to give your feet a break.
3. Excessive Friction
Friction is a common factor in callus formation. Activities involving repetitive rubbing or pressure on specific areas can result in a painful callus on the foot. Consider using protective pads or inserts to minimize friction, especially if you engage in activities that stress your feet more.
4. Poor Foot Hygiene
Neglecting foot hygiene can contribute to callus development. Failing to clean and moisturize your feet regularly can result in dry or cracked skin, making it more susceptible to calluses.
Make it a habit to wash your feet daily, especially focusing on the areas prone to calluses. Use a foot moisturizer to keep your skin soft and supple.
5. Standing for Prolonged Periods
Jobs or activities requiring prolonged standing periods can contribute to foot calluses. When you stand for extended durations, specific parts of your feet carry your body weight. It results in increased pressure and friction.
So, take breaks, shift your weight, and consider wearing supportive shoes to alleviate the strain on your feet.
6. Lack of Foot Support
Inadequate arch support in your shoes can contribute to calluses as they alter the weight distribution on your feet. Invest in footwear with proper arch support to ensure an even pressure distribution.
Orthotic insoles can also be beneficial, providing additional support and reducing the need for an expensive foot callus treatment.
7. Obesity
Carrying excess body weight can exacerbate foot problems, including the development of calluses. The additional weight puts added pressure on the soles of your feet, leading to thicker and harder skin. Staying fit and healthy can prevent calluses and other health issues.
8. Age-related Changes
Our skin tends to lose moisture and elasticity as we age, making it more prone to callus formation. Regular moisturizing becomes even more critical to counteract the natural aging process.
Additionally, older individuals should prioritize foot care and shoe selection to prevent callus on the bottom of the foot.
9. Genetics
Genetic factors can play a role in callus development. If your parents or close relatives have a calluses history, you will likely have them.
While you can't change your genetics, knowing your family history can help prevent and address potential risk factors early on.
10. Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and circulatory problems, can increase the risk of developing calluses. These conditions may affect blood flow and nerve function, making monitoring and caring for your feet regularly crucial.
How to Get Rid of Foot Calluses
Here are expert-backed strategies to prevent and reduce callus formation:
1. Invest in Supportive Footwear
Wearing shoes with proper arch support and shock absorption helps distribute pressure evenly across your foot. Look for footwear designed for your foot type and avoid narrow or high-heeled shoes that create friction. Orthotic insoles prescribed by a podiatrist can also help correct gait issues and prevent recurring calluses.
2. Exfoliate Safely with Pumice or Foot Files
Gently filing down hardened skin after soaking your feet in warm water helps keep calluses from building up. Use a pumice stone or foot file 2–3 times a week — and follow up with a moisturizer to protect the skin barrier.
3. Prioritize Foot Hygiene
Wash your feet daily, especially between the toes, and dry them thoroughly. Regular nail trimming and inspection for cracks or skin issues are key — especially for people with diabetes or circulation problems. For persistent issues, consider scheduling a foot exam.
4. Moisturize Consistently
Dry skin is more prone to cracking and callus formation. Apply a thick urea-based foot cream at night and wear cotton socks to lock in moisture. Focus on heels and the balls of your feet.
5. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Excess body weight increases pressure on your feet, leading to thickened skin in high-friction areas. Maintaining a healthy BMI can reduce your risk of both foot calluses and related complications like plantar fasciitis.
6. Get Regular Podiatry Check-Ups
A podiatrist can remove stubborn calluses safely and evaluate your gait or biomechanics. Routine visits are especially important if you have diabetes, neuropathy, or recurring foot pain. Book an appointment at one of our Haddon Heights or Voorhees offices for tailored treatment.
Step into Comfort with Prime Foot and Ankle Specialists
Prime Foot and Ankle Specialists is your go-to destination for foot health. Our dedicated team ensures that your foot callus becomes a thing of the past, offering you a seamless journey toward pain-free steps.
With our caring professionals, state-of-the-art solutions, and a commitment to your well-being, New Jersey has hailed us as the top choice. Trust us to treat but prevent calluses, providing you with tailored care and advanced treatments.
Foot & Ankle Centers of South Jersey offers in-office callus removal, pressure evaluations, and footwear guidance to help you stay pain-free. Visit us in Voorhees, Woodbury Heights, or Haddon Heights to get started.
Say goodbye to foot discomfort and hello to a future of happy, healthy feet with Prime Foot and Ankle Specialists. Book an appointment now!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Daily salicylic acid pads, softening soaks, and gentle filing help. For thick or painful calluses, professional debridement at a podiatry office is safer.
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If you don’t address the root cause (e.g., foot shape, poor shoes, abnormal gait), calluses will return. You may benefit from custom orthotics
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Small calluses can protect your feet. But painful, cracked, or discolored ones can lead to infection or ulcers — especially in people with diabetes.
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Yes. Diabetics often have nerve damage and altered foot pressure patterns that increase callus buildup. Learn more about diabetic foot care.
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Corns are smaller, deeper, and often more painful. See our blog on corns vs. calluses for a full breakdown.