A corn or callus is an area of hard skin that develops as a result of increased pressure on that area such as standing or rubbing with shoes, but some people naturally tend to form corns because of their skin type.
Facts about corns and calluses:
- They often appear on feet and hands.
- Corns are small lumps of hard skin.
- Calluses are larger patches of thick skin.
- Both corn and callus could be painful.
Causes of injury
- Wearing high heels, uncomfortable shoes, or shoes of the wrong size.
- Not wearing socks with shoes.
- Lifting heavy weights.
- Playing some musical instruments.
Tips help to treat callus and corn
- Wear thick, padded socks.
- Wear loose, comfortable shoes with low heels and a comfortable sole.
- Avoid wearing high heels or narrow, pointed shoes
- Use heel pads.
- Soften rough skin on your feet by soaking them in warm water.
- Regularly use a pumice stone or foot file to remove hard skin.
- Moisturize your skin to keep skin smooth.
- Do not walk long distances or stand for long periods.
- Avoid walking barefoot.
- Use Over-the-counter products to treat calluses and corns. You can use pain reliever when necessary.
See your podiatrist
A podiatrist will help you treat corns and calluses by:
- Using bandages or medications to soften the hard skin and make it simpler to remove.
- Using specially designed soft pads or insoles to relieve pressure on the affected area.
- Removing the corn or callus. The podiatrist may cut the thicker skin with a scalpel to help relieve pressure on the tissues. Do not attempt to remove callus/corn on your own as this might aggravate the discomfort and cause infection.
You should see a doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
- You have diabetes.
- Having a problem with blood circulation or heart disease.
- If the callus/corn is bleeding or contains pus or discharges.
- The callus/corn did not improve despite being treated at home for 3 weeks.
- The pain is severe or stops you from carrying out your normal activities.
Call us on 026330515 or 0555116072 to book a medical appointment with a podiatrist at Health & Style Medical Center.
