Developing calluses on the bottom of your feet can impede your ability to walk comfortably. Since the problem is caused by pressure points, the only way you can reduce or eliminate the problem is by decreasing the amount of pressure in that area of your foot.

Address Structural Issues

In some cases, the pressure points on the bottom of your feet develop because of structural changes in the foot. Foot changes associated with bunions or arthritis are usually the culprit and will need to be corrected with surgery before you experience noticeable reduction in calluses. With bunions, the excess bone needs to be removed and the toe will be straightened so it is returned to its original position. People who experience arthritic changes may need joint fusions to correct deformities and alleviate pain from the arthritic joint. Once you have healed from the procedure, there may be a drastic reduction in pain from calluses if there is no longer a pressure point in that area.

Use Customized Inserts

Some retail outlets may offer slightly customized inserts. You will need to step on a platform that senses the pressure points on your feet. Based on this information, you will be assigned a specific insert on the shelf. This is a better option than buying any insert off the shelf, but it is not nearly as effective as those from your podiatrist. With advances in technology, your podiatrist may offer a 3D scan by taking special pictures of your feet. The information is used to create inserts that are customized to your unique feet. When you can reduce the pressure on your calluses, they may not return as quickly after they are initially removed.

Remove Thickened Skin

Similar to customized inserts, there are ways you can remove some of the callus yourself. It is best to speak with a doctor before you use an retail products, because they are not suitable for everyone. If your callus is especially large, it will be more efficient to head to the podiatrist than waste your money on retail treatments that do little to help. Your podiatrist will use a blade to shave away all the hardened skin. Depending on how deep the callus is, local anesthetic might be necessary during the procedure. Once they have removed all the dead skin, there should be less pain during walking. Eventually the area will heal and new, healthy skin or thickened skin will grow in its place. The less pressure placed on this area, the more likely the new skin will not create a callus.

Although calluses are a common issue, many people continue to rely on self-care to manage the problem, often with few benefits. Addressing the underlying problem is the only way to effectively reduce or eliminate calluses.

For more information, visit websites like vippodiatrist.com.