What are corn and calluses?
Corns and calluses are areas of thick, hardened skin that commonly develop on your feet.
Corns are small layers of hardened skin that typically develop on the tops and sides of the toe. Calluses are larger than corns and typically develop on weight-bearing areas like under your heels or on the soles of your feet.
Although there’s usually no reason for concern, both corns and calluses can become tender, inflamed, and painful.
What causes corns and calluses?
Corns and calluses are your skin’s reaction to repetitive pressure and friction. Your skin develops layers of hardened skin to protect itself against the source of friction or pressure. Ill-fitting shoes and wearing shoes without socks are the leading causes of corns and calluses.
Wearing shoes too tight can cause compression, which can lead to corn and calluses. Loose fighting shoes can cause your toes to rub against the insides of your shoe, causing friction and irritation.
Underlying foot problems like bunions, hammertoe, and other deformities can increase your risk of developing corns and calluses.
How can I avoid corns and calluses?
Although corns and calluses are very common, there are ways to prevent them.
The best way to avoid corns and calluses is to wear shoes that fit properly. Make sure that your shoes leave plenty of room for toes but aren’t too loose. If you can’t comfortably wiggle your toes in your shoes, you should consider going up a size.
When should I see a podiatrist about my corns or calluses?
Corns and calluses are typically painless and don’t usually require treatment. In some cases, your corn or callus can cause pain or discomfort.
You should book an appointment at Advanced Foot, Ankle, & Wound Specialists, PA, if you notice any irritation or problems with your corns or calluses.
People with diabetes are at high risk for complications like infection and diabetic ulcers. If you have diabetes, it’s best to discuss treatment of your corn or callus with an experienced podiatrist.
What treatments are available?
Treatment depends on the severity of your condition. In many cases, removing the source of friction like ill-fitting shoes is enough to resolve your corn or callus. If your issue requires additional treatment, your podiatrist may recommend:
- Trimming excess skin
- Callus-removing medication
- Orthotics
If a structural deformity causes your condition, your doctor may recommend surgery to correct your toe’s alignment and eliminate the friction.
To determine which treatment is right for you, book an appointment at Advanced Foot, Ankle, & Wound Specialists, PA, by phone or schedule online today.
