Callus, also known as a bony callus or fracture callus, is a mass of tissue that forms at the site of a bone fracture during the healing process. It is a normal part of the body’s response to injury and is essential for restoring the strength and integrity of the bone.
When a bone is fractured, the body responds by sending specialized cells to the site of the injury to begin the process of healing. These cells, called osteoblasts, begin to produce new bone tissue to bridge the gap created by the fracture. Over time, this new bone tissue hardens and forms a mass of tissue known as a callus.
Calluses are typically composed of a combination of new bone tissue, cartilage, and connective tissue. They are initially soft and pliable but gradually become harder and more dense as the healing process continues. In most cases, calluses begin to form within a few weeks of the initial fracture and can continue to grow and remodel for several months.
While calluses are a normal part of the healing process, they can also cause discomfort or pain, especially if they press against nearby nerves or tissues. In some cases, a healthcare provider may recommend surgery to remove or reshape the callus to relieve symptoms.
In addition to their role in bone healing, calluses can also develop in response to other types of repetitive stress or pressure on the body. For example, a callus may form on the hands or feet of a person who regularly performs manual labor or engages in certain sports or activities.
Calluses that form in response to repetitive stress are usually not harmful and can be managed with self-care measures, such as soaking the affected area in warm water and using a pumice stone or emery board to gently remove the thickened skin. However, it is important to seek medical attention if a callus becomes painful, infected, or shows signs of other complications.
In summary, callus is a mass of tissue that forms at the site of a bone fracture during the healing process. It is a normal part of bone healing and is composed of new bone tissue, cartilage, and connective tissue. Calluses can also develop in response to other types of repetitive stress or pressure on the body. While calluses are usually not harmful, they can cause discomfort or pain and may require medical attention in some cases.
