Management of calluses on the knees

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Calluses are thickened, rough and hard surfaces on the skin that is formed due to intermittent pressure and friction at a particular area. Calluses usually develop on the foot, under the toes, hand and sometimes on the elbows and knees. In most cases, the color of the calluses are usually yellow or grey and can be hard and dry.

Calluses occur on the knees usually on the front portion which is more susceptible to friction while doing various activities. The area where the calluses occur is slightly raised and bumpy, less sensitive to touch and pain than the surrounding skin. Sometimes, calluses found on the knees are painful and becomes worse when bending the knees or while stretching the lower extremity.

Causes of calluses on knees

Calluses on the knee
Calluses on the knee can also develop among individuals who have certain conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis of the knee joint.
  • Calluses can occur on the feet or hands usually by using tight shoes, constant rubbing of the skin while doing physical work, handling tools, playing certain sports such as tennis and badminton.
  • An area in the skin which is prone to friction and pressure for long periods of time becomes dead and it will form a hard layer and not caused by virus. People working in gardens and placing pressure on the knees while working are prone to calluses and thickened skin in the knees.
  • Calluses on the knee can also develop among individuals who have certain conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis of the knee joint.

Treatment and home remedies of calluses on knees

Calluses can be managed with various treatment options.

  • It takes time for a callus in the knees to be cured and a constant routine is the basis for the treatment of removing the calluses.
  • Keep the callus skin moist and apply moisturizers in order to soften the calluses.
  • Soak the knees regularly in warm and soapy water since it helps soften the callous. After soaking, rub the affected area with a wash cloth or rub it gently using a moist pumice stone in order to remove dead skin cells and make the callus soft. Before using a pumice stone, apply petroleum jelly or coconut oil regularly on the affected area.
  • In order to prevent callus from worsening, protect the knee from friction and rubbing by using a knee pad since it helps minimize pressure on the knees.
  • Place a salicylic acid patch on each knee every day or at night in order to minimize the calluses.
  • If the person is diagnosed with diabetes, he/she is at risk for infection which is difficult to treat and there is a need to seek medical help.

Tips to bear in mind

Remove dead skin cells from the skin at least once or twice in week in order to prevent the buildup of callus and moisturize the skin every day. The individual can seek medical help if there is difficulty in removing the callus.

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