Treatment Options For Hyperkeratosis

Wear Protective Padding

Corns and calluses are types of hyperkeratosis that usually develop from constant pressure or rubbing from ill-fitting footwear. Corns are lesions that grow on or in between the toes, and can appear as dull, rounded bumps. Calluses are thick patches that can grow on the fingers or the bottom of the feet. These growths can become painful over time if left untreated. Patients can wear protective padding to treat or prevent calluses and corns. These materials cushion the growths or hold the foot in a more comfortable position. They also relieve the pressure and pain of larger growths. Moleskin pads are a popular choice to protect the skin from irritation and provide extra support. They're made with a very soft fabric and can be used for both corns and calluses. If a patient's corn or callus is small, they can cut out doughnut-shaped pads to go over and around the corn or callus. Calluses that cover a fairly large area can be covered with protective padding to transfer the weight away from the callus.

Continue reading for more information on treating hyperkeratosis now.

Stop Wearing Improperly-Fitting Shoes

The thickened skin that appears on the toes or feet usually results from wearing ill-fitting shoes. These thickened spots, known as corns and calluses, can lead to serious health issues for diabetes or others with poor circulation, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association. Studies have shown the effects of wearing ill-fitting footwear among older individuals who reported skin irritation from their footwear. These patients also had a history of corns and calluses. Less than fifteen percent of the participants in one of the studies had properly fitting shoes. Another study of diabetes patients revealed less than twenty-five percent of the participants were wearing the right size of shoes when sitting or standing. The most commonly cited reason for size discrepancies during these studies were shoes that were either too long or too narrow for the feet. One of the most effective ways to prevent the growth of these kinds of hyperkeratosis is to stop wearing improperly-fitting shoes.

Learn more about ways of treating hyperkeratosis now.