A callus is an area of skin that grows thicker than usual. It is often found on the hands and feet, but can occur on other areas of the body as well. The callus feels tough and bumpy and the affected skin appears gray or yellow, according to Kids Health from Nemours. A callus may also cause pain, especially if it is found on the feet. Treatment for calluses is not necessary unless the condition is bothersome. Calluses are not serious medical conditions and they can usually be prevented with proper care and protection on the skin.
Shoes
Ill-fitting shoes may cause calluses to form. Shoes that are too tight and high heels are the shoes that most often cause friction on the foot, but shoes that are too large may also cause the shoe to rub on the skin. The friction and repeated rubbing on the skin causes a thickening of skin. The skin thickens in order to protect the skin from further damage, like ulcers or blisters, according to Medline Plus. Areas of the foot that experience calluses are areas with bony prominences, such as the heels. Wearing shoes without socks increases the risk of developing calluses.
Bunion
A bunion is an enlargement of the bone between the big toe and the foot. The big toe eventually pushes toward the smaller toes. The larger bone begins to rub against the shoe and may cause a callus on the outer portion of the bone, according to Medline Plus. Wearing a shoe with a wide toe area or sandals helps prevent the callus from forming with a bunion.
Hand Tools
Using hand tools can cause a callus to develop on the hands. The calluses develop on the hands to prevent blisters from forming. Tools that use a repetitive motion from the hands, such as a rake, cause the most concern for callus formation. Wearing gloves reduces the friction on the skin and can help prevent the callus formation. Sometime a callus can be helpful. Individuals who play the guitar develop a callus on the fingers from the friction on the guitar strings. The calluses in turn make playing the guitar easier, according to Kids Health from Nemours.
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