Calluses are common among those who lift weights or engage in physical activities that put pressure on the hands (palms) and feet. “Calluses are thickening of the skin that happens on bony structure,” says Dr Subhashini Mohan, Consultant Dermatologist, Fortis Malar, Chennai. “It’s a protective mechanism that happens because of constant friction in particular parts of the body.
Calluses protect our body in a gym or work setting. They also aid us in gripping the barbell and other equipment. “The slight hardening of the skin helps you wedge the barbell in your palms,” says Abhishek, a tool and die maker based in Bengaluru, and whose work involves gripping and lifting objects. “Eventually, as I got stronger they did help me in gripping.”
While calluses do not usually hurt, they can be an eyesore. They can also cause discomfort if they get infected and are left untreated.
What causes calluses?
Calluses develop on the palms while lifting weights due to the repeated gripping of weights. “The inner part of the [lifters’] palm comes in contact with the equipment, due to the constant pressure,” says Dr Mohan.
They also form on the feet, particularly in areas where the skin rubs against the inside of shoes or other equipment. Marathoners can get calluses on their feet as they stride for long hours. “People with flatfeet need a special type of shoe,” adds Dr Mohan.
Though calluses are part of the body’s defence mechanism, they can become problematic if they grow too large or become too thick. “When there is poor [blood] circulation, calluses can break open to form ulcers that may not heal, especially for people with diabetes,” said Dr Mohan.
Prevention of calluses
One way to prevent calluses is to regularly moisturise the skin on the palms and feet to combat dryness and cracking. A moisturising cream or lotion can work wonders, particularly before and after gruelling training sessions.
“Prevention is always better than cure in case of calluses,” says Dr Mohan.
Using protective gear – gloves or lifting straps – to reduce the amount of pressure on the hands and fingers helps. “If you’re a weightlifter you have to make sure to use cushioned ones (equipment) for whatever gym activities you are doing. Ensure you use instruments which prevent calluses,” says Dr Mohan.
Gloves, straps and the right shoes can also help in reducing friction between the skin and any surface, which aid in prevention of calluses.
It is also important to properly care for any of your existing calluses. This involves gently filing or sanding it down with a pumice stone or other derma-certified tools. It is important to be careful not to overdo it and create an open wound, as this can lead to infection.
Takeaways
- Calluses are a protective mechanism caused due to constant friction in particular parts of the body.
- Although they are a part of the body’s defence mechanism, they can become problematic if left untreated, especially when they are infected.
- Regular moistening and using protective gear can help prevent them.
- Using a pumice stone to gently fill or sand down a callus is a good way to tend to them.
