Definition: Foot files are made of pumice or other materials that file away callusing on the foot. They must be used regularly, from once a week to as much as 3 times a week after bathing. Foot files can be electric as well as manual.
Callus management is multi-faceted: Arch supports can reduce callusing by taking pressure off the areas where calluses develop. Wearing shoes that fit and do not cause rubbing that produce calluses is also important. Heel sleeves and moisturizers moisturize the calluses so they can be filed down more easily. Callusing breaks the skin open and when the skin is broken, infections can enter in those openings. This can be painful to the touch but infections can develop and not be felt until the infection is quite far along. For diabetics and others with compromised blood circulation, callus management is vitally important in preventing infection.
Benefits: Callus management is both an esthetic and health issue. Along with moisturizing, correct shoe sizing and offloading through arch support, foot files are an integral part of keeping callusing reduced.
Text: Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig Image: Pedifix packaging