Corns / Callus

What are Corns and Calluses?

Corns and calluses are thickened areas of skin that develop as a protective response to excessive pressure or friction on the feet. These conditions are often a result of the foot bearing the full body weight or experiencing unbalanced forces, which cause repeated irritation.

Corns:

Definition: Corns are small, hardened areas of skin that typically develop between the toes or on the tops of the toes where there is continuous pressure from the toe bones or friction from footwear.
Appearance: Corns are usually smaller, with a central core that can press into the skin, causing discomfort.
Symptoms: Corns can be soft and moist between the toes, or hard and painful on the tops of the toes. They may lead to acute pain, swelling, and redness if pressure continues on them.

Calluses:

Definition: Calluses are larger, thicker patches of skin that usually develop on the soles of the feet, particularly on the balls of the feet or heels. They are caused by repeated pressure or friction.
Appearance: Calluses have a more yellowish appearance and are generally larger and less defined compared to corns. They can become rough and thick, which can lead to discomfort when walking or standing.
Symptoms: Calluses may cause pain or discomfort, especially when walking or standing for long periods, due to the pressure on the skin. They are usually more widespread than corns.

Common Locations:

Corns and Calluses can appear on:
- Balls of the feet
- Heels
- Tops of toes
- Sides of toenails
- Between the toes (especially for corns)

Causes of Corns and Calluses:

Unbalanced pressure: Ill-fitting shoes, walking styles, or uneven pressure on the feet can lead to friction.
Foot deformities: Conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, or high arches can increase friction and pressure on certain areas of the foot.
Improper footwear: Tight, ill-fitting shoes or shoes with high heels often cause excessive pressure, leading to the development of corns and calluses.
Repetitive motion: Activities or sports that place excessive stress on certain areas of the

Treatment of Corns and Calluses:

If you have corns or calluses, it is important to seek professional advice and treatment from a podiatrist. They will assess your foot function and examine your footwear to identify and treat the underlying causes of the problem.

Podiatric Treatment:
- Removal of Thickened Skin: A podiatrist can carefully and painlessly remove the thickened skin with a sharp blade, reducing pain and discomfort.
- Foot Function Assessment: A podiatrist will examine your foot mechanics to identify contributing factors and may recommend modifications to your footwear or provide orthotics to redistribute pressure more evenly.
Over-the-Counter Treatments:
- Corn Plasters and Ointments: While they can temporarily alleviate symptoms, these treatments often only address the external signs (corns and calluses) and not the underlying causes. Additionally, these treatments, especially if misused, may cause damage to the surrounding skin.
- Caution: Corn plasters may not be suitable for people with diabetes, circulation issues, or fragile skin. Always consult a podiatrist before using these products.
Footwear Adjustments:
- Wearing properly fitted shoes that offer enough room for the toes can reduce pressure and friction, preventing corns and calluses from forming or worsening.
Prevention:
- Regularly checking your feet for signs of pressure or abnormal skin growths.
- Keeping the feet moisturized to prevent dry, cracked skin that can worsen corns and calluses.
- Using protective padding in areas of the foot that are prone to excessive pressure.

Conclusion: Corns and calluses are common foot conditions that can cause discomfort and pain. Professional treatment by a podiatrist is the most effective way to manage and prevent these issues. It’s important to address the underlying causes, such as ill-fitting footwear or foot deformities, to avoid recurring problems.

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