Corns and calluses

Corns and calluses are common foot conditions that can be painful and uncomfortable. They are thick, hardened areas of skin that develop in response to repeated friction or pressure on the feet. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for corns and calluses.

Causes of Corns and Calluses

Corns and calluses are caused by repeated friction or pressure on the skin of the feet. This can be due to a variety of factors, including:

1.    Poorly fitting shoes: Shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause friction and pressure on the feet.

2.    High heels: High heels can cause pressure on the balls of the feet, leading to the development of calluses.

3.    Foot abnormalities: Bunions, hammertoes, and other foot abnormalities can cause pressure points that lead to the development of corns and calluses.

4.    Activities that place pressure on the feet: Running, hiking, and other activities that place pressure on the feet can cause corns and calluses to develop.

Symptoms of Corns and Calluses

The symptoms of corns and calluses can vary, but most commonly include:

1.    Thick, hardened areas of skin: Corns and calluses are thick, hardened areas of skin that develop on the feet.

2.    Pain or discomfort: Corns and calluses can be painful or uncomfortable, especially when pressure is applied to them.

3.    Rough, flaky skin: The skin around corns and calluses may become rough or flaky.

Treatment Options for Corns and Calluses

There are several treatment options available for corns and calluses, including:

1.    Proper footwear: Wearing properly fitting shoes can help prevent the development of corns and calluses.

2.    Padding: Placing padding around corns and calluses can help relieve pressure on the affected area.

3.    Debridement and enucleation: In many cases, the best treatment is for a podiatrist to debride away the callus and enucleate the painful corns out of the foot. This is typically a pain free procedure and a common podiatry treatment.

Preventing Corns and Calluses

There are several steps you can take to prevent the development of corns and calluses, including:

1.    Wear properly fitting shoes: Shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause friction and pressure on the feet.

2.    Wear socks: Socks can help reduce friction on the feet.

3.    Use padding: Placing padding on areas of the feet that are prone to corns and calluses can help prevent their development.

4.    Maintain good foot hygiene: Wash your feet daily and dry them thoroughly to prevent the buildup of sweat and bacteria.

Corns and calluses can be a painful and uncomfortable foot condition, but with proper treatment and prevention measures, they can be managed effectively. If you have corns or calluses that are causing pain or discomfort, speak to your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your individual needs.