I, a 68-year-old woman, have been getting calluses on my feet for about ten years; especially my heels. Over time, the tearing will cause painful fissures. How is that possible? I stopped walking.
Joris Bartstra, journalist with medical diploma
Callus formation is a protection mechanism against pressure and friction forces. Sometimes it backfires by creating thickening that puts even more pressure on the underlying skin layers and further stimulates callus growth. You get it more at an older age because the skin and subcutaneous fat become thinner; the shock-absorbing capacity decreases as a result.
Track calluses
Tracking is important. This can be done with a grater or pumice stone, preferably after soaking or soaking with a foot bath or ointment with salicylic acid. It is best to keep fissures as sterile as possible with povidone-iodine ointment. Bacteria and fungi are everywhere and they hinder wound healing. Sometimes it helps to close the gap with a plaster after removing excess calluses.
Incorrectly fitting shoes can strongly encourage calluses. Also change your footwear regularly.
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