Experts state that calluses, commonly seen on feet that carry the body's weight throughout the day, are actually a defense mechanism of the skin, but when neglected, they can turn into a problem causing severe pain. They issued important warnings for the prevention and treatment of calluses, which are triggered by many factors, from wrong shoe choices to gait disorders. 

Emphasizing that preventing callus formation is more important than treating them, Lecturer Meldağ Turhan from the Podology Department recommended, “Choose shoes that fit your feet perfectly, are soft and breathable. If possible, take short breaks during the day to give your feet a chance to rest. Wearing cotton socks also allows your feet to breathe.”
 

Lecturer Meldağ Turhan from the Podology Department of Üsküdar Üniversitesi Health Services Vocational School discussed the issue of calluses that threaten foot health.

Skin thickens to protect itself

Lecturer Meldağ Turhan pointed out that feet are exposed to various pressures and frictions while carrying the body's weight throughout the day. She stated, “This situation can cause the skin to activate its self-protection mechanism over time and thicken. One of the most common examples of these thickenings is a callus. Calluses are thickened skin layers that usually develop in areas subjected to constant friction or pressure. They are most commonly found on the soles of the feet, toes, and sometimes hands. A callus is actually the skin's way of protecting itself; however, if left untreated, it can cause pain and discomfort.”

The process of callus formation 

Lecturer Meldağ Turhan explained the process of callus formation as follows: “Pressure or friction; Walking on hard surfaces for long periods or wearing ill-fitting shoes creates constant pressure on certain areas of the skin. Skin defense mechanism; The skin tries to protect itself against this pressure and forms a callus by thickening. Hardening over time; Initially soft, a callus can become harder and more painful over time.”

What are the factors that increase callus formation?

Lecturer Meldağ Turhan also noted that some lifestyle habits and wrong shoe choices can increase the risk of callus formation. She said, “Wrong shoe choice; narrow, tight, or ill-fitting shoes increase friction. Standing for long periods; especially those working on hard surfaces (e.g., teachers, waiters) are at higher risk. High-heeled shoes; apply excessive pressure to the front of the foot and trigger callus formation. Incorrect gait; gait disorders such as flat feet or pronation cause excessive pressure at certain points. Walking barefoot; especially on hard and rough surfaces can lead to skin hardening.” 

What are the most common methods for callus treatment?

Lecturer Meldağ Turhan stated that if a callus becomes painful, unsupervised interventions at home should be avoided, and seeking support from a podologist (foot health specialist) is the correct approach. Lecturer Meldağ Turhan, emphasizing that professional treatment methods are both safe and effective, explained the process as follows:
“If the callus has progressed or is causing pain, consulting a podologist or dermatologist would be the best solution. Podologists carefully clean the callus with sterile instruments (debridement), if the cause of the callus is a gait disorder, it can be corrected with special orthopedic insoles, and special foot health care techniques such as medical pedicures are applied.”

Choose shoes that fit your feet perfectly, are soft and breathable

Emphasizing that preventing callus formation is more important than treating them, Lecturer Meldağ Turhan stated that this problem can be largely prevented with simple habits integrated into daily life. Lecturer Meldağ Turhan offered the following advice to protect against calluses:
“Choose shoes that fit your feet perfectly, are soft and breathable. If possible, take short breaks during the day to give your feet a chance to rest. You can prevent your skin from drying and hardening by applying moisturizing cream to your feet every day. Wearing cotton socks instead of synthetic materials also allows your feet to breathe.”

Calluses should not be neglected

Lecturer Meldağ Turhan pointed out that calluses are a common skin problem that can become painful if neglected. She concluded, “However, with correct shoe choice, regular foot care, and professional support, they can be both prevented and effectively treated. By prioritizing your foot health, you can improve your daily quality of life. Remember, your feet are one of the most important support points carrying your entire body.”