Callus can develop as hardened and thickened skin in response to excess pressure and friction. Excess pressure and friction could result from poorly fitting footwear (too small or too big); wearing high heels and it may also be as a result of poor foot mechanics during walking or any other weight-bearing activity.
Callus can be painful and uncomfortable or you might simply find them unsightly. They most commonly occur over the balls of the foot, tops of the toes and around the heels.
Athlete’s foot is a very common skin infection caused by a group of organisms that live on our skin called ‘dermatophytes’. Everybody has these organisms living on their skin and they are usually harmless, but will flourish in the right environment – hot and humid – such as training shoes and tight fitting footwear. Athlete’s foot usually causes a red, itchy rash where the skin can appear dry and flaky.
Sometimes, small blisters (1-2mm) in diameter may be present. It is common for it to occur in between the toes, as sweat does not evaporate easily from this part of your foot. This can make your skin moist and thus increase the risk of a fungal infection. It is easily treated once correctly diagnosed, using anti-fungal sprays or creams that can be found in any reputable pharmacy.
It occurs more commonly in adults than children and many anti-fungal preparations may not be suitable for children. It is advised that children who have a suspected fungal skin (or nail) infection are referred back to the GP, who may prescribe medication that is more appropriate.
