Understanding Calluses and Diabetes
If you have diabetes, you know that having high blood sugar can cause all sorts of problems throughout the body. One common issue that many diabetics face is the development of calluses and thickened skin on the feet.
Calluses form when there is repeated friction or pressure on an area of skin. This causes the skin cells to grow and replicate more quickly, resulting in a patch of tough, thick skin. For people with diabetes, calluses can be especially problematic.
The Link Between Calluses and Diabetes
There are a few reasons why diabetics are more prone to callus formation:
- Nerve damage (neuropathy) - High blood sugar can damage the nerves in the feet, causing numbness. This means irritations and pressure go unnoticed, allowing calluses to form.
- Poor circulation - Diabetes impairs blood flow, especially to the extremities. This slow healing allows callus tissue to build up.
- Foot deformities - Issues like bunions, hammertoes and bone spurs caused by diabetes can lead to friction and pressure points on the feet.
- Dry skin - Having chronically high blood sugar dehydrates the body and dries out the skin, making it easier for calluses to form.
If left untreated, thick calluses can lead to painful cracking and splitting in the skin. They can also increase the risk of foot ulcers and infections, which can be severe due to poor circulation.
Preventing Callus Formation
The best way to avoid calluses as a diabetic is to keep blood sugar levels under control. Follow your doctor's treatment recommendations for medication, diet, exercise and foot care.
Other tips include:
- Inspect your feet daily - look for any signs of calluses or irritations.
- Wear proper fitting shoes - avoid tight shoes and high heels.
- Use moisturizer - keep feet hydrated to prevent cracks.
- Wear socks - this reduces friction that can lead to calluses.
- See a podiatrist - have any foot deformities or neuropathic issues addressed.
Treating and Removing Calluses
If you do develop calluses on your feet, prompt treatment and removal can help prevent complications. Here are some smart tips for managing calluses with diabetes:
Soak and Scrub
Soaking your feet in warm water can help soften and loosen callused skin. Use a pumice stone, foot file or scrub brush after soaking to gently remove dead skin. Avoid abrasive tools that can damage healthy skin.
Apply Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a chemical exfoliant that breaks down layers of thickened skin. After soaking, apply a salicylic acid based cream or patch to problem areas at night. The acid will dissolve callus tissue over time.
Use a Callus Remover
Look for over-the-counter callus removal products made specifically for diabetics. Many contain ingredients like urea, glycerin, aloe vera and Vitamin E to hydrate and exfoliate. Use a plastic scraper or pad included to rub away dead skin.
See a Podiatrist
For severe or stubborn calluses, make an appointment with your podiatrist. They can trim or debride buildup using a scalpel. Medicated creams or prescription strength removers may also be provided. Professional treatment helps avoid at-home mistakes that can lead to cuts, ulcers and infection.
Protect skin after removal
After removing calluses, the new skin underneath will be sensitive and prone to irritation. Be sure to apply moisturizer and pad areas with felt cushioning. Wear clean, dry socks and avoid walking barefoot.
Avoid DIY Surgery
Aggressively cutting, tearing or picking at calluses is risky for diabetics. This can cause tears, ingrown nails and bleeding that can trigger a major infection. Stick to gentle, daily removal methods instead of extreme extraction.
Choosing the Best Callus Removers
If you opt to use an over-the-counter callus remover, there are many factors to consider when selecting the right product:
Ingredients to Look For
- Urea - Softens and hydrates
- Alpha-hydroxy acids - Exfoliate dead skin
- Salicylic acid - Sheds callus tissue
- Vitamin E - Protects skin
- Tea tree oil - Anti-fungal and anti-bacterial
Ingredients to Avoid
- Metals or sharp edges - Can cut skin
- Fragrances - May irritate skin
- Parabens - May cause reactions
Types of Removers
- Creams - Applied daily to soften calluses
- Gels - Also used for daily chemical exfoliation
- Pads - Convenient scrubbing pads with abrasive surface
- Scrapers - Used to gently scrape away loosened skin
Look for products specifically marketed for use on diabetic or sensitive skin. Follow all directions carefully.
Other Key Considerations
- Cost - Generic brands are most affordable
- Reviews - Check user feedback and ratings
- Company reputation - Established brands are often reliable
Home Remedies
For those looking to save money, it is possible to make some DIY callus treatments using common household items:
Epsom Salt
Soaking feet in warm water mixed with Epsom salt can soften and exfoliate. The magnesium in the salt promotes skin health.
Petroleum Jelly
Applying petroleum jelly and covering feet with socks at night hydrates calluses. The thick emollient helps lock in moisture.
Oatmeal
Grind plain oatmeal into a powder to make a gentle scrub. The coarse grains will slough off dead skin when rubbed on calluses.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice contains alpha-hydroxy acids that break down thick, scaly skin. Dip a cotton ball in juice and apply to calluses. Rinse after 10 minutes.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Antiseptic and anti-fungal apple cider vinegar soothes itchy, irritated skin when added to foot baths. It also exfoliates.
While home remedies can help, they may not be as fast acting or effective as commercial removers. Only use natural treatments if calluses are mild.
When to See a Doctor
In some cases, it is wise to have a podiatrist handle callus removal rather than doing it yourself at home:
- Calluses are very large, thick or painful
- Infections, ulcers, cracks, or bleeding occur
- Nerve damage in feet causes numbness
- Circulation is very poor
- Calluses keep recurring and won't resolve
Seeing a specialist can reduce the risks that come with improper at-home treatment. Listen to your body and seek help if calluses don't improve.
The Takeaway
Calluses on the feet are a common complication of diabetes that require proper care and removal. Soaking, exfoliating and moisturizing skin can help prevent buildup. When calluses develop, use removers containing urea, AHAs and salicylic acid to gently shed thick layers of skin. Avoid cutting or picking. With some patience and diligence, you can manage calluses and keep feet healthy.
FAQs
Why are diabetics prone to getting calluses?
Diabetics are at high risk for calluses due to nerve damage in the feet, poor circulation, foot deformities, and dry skin caused by high blood sugar. These factors lead to thick, cracked calluses.
How can I prevent calluses from forming?
Keep blood sugar controlled, wear proper shoes, use moisturizer, inspect feet daily, and see a podiatrist about any foot problems. Preventing calluses is easier than removing them.
What ingredients should I look for in a callus remover?
See if the product contains urea, alpha-hydroxy acids, and salicylic acid. These ingredients are effective at breaking down and exfoliating thick, dead skin cells.
Can I use a pumice stone or razor blade to remove calluses?
No, diabetics should never use abrasive tools or sharp objects on calluses. This can damage skin and lead to dangerous cuts, ulcers, and infections.
When should I see a doctor for callus removal?
See a podiatrist right away if calluses are large, painful, cracked, bleeding or infected. Also if they persist despite home treatment. Let a specialist handle severe cases.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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