Corns and calluses are a common foot problem that occurs when there is a build-up of thickened skin on the top of your toes or bottom of your feet. Most people develop corns and calluses as a result of wearing small-fitting shoes. Besides being painful, corns and calluses are also unsightly. While anyone may have a corn or callus, medical conditions such as diabetes put you at risk of this foot problem. Fortunately, in most cases, Coral Springs corns and calluses are not severe conditions and can be prevented and managed with both home remedies and medical treatment.
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What causes corns and calluses?
- Long hours of standing, walking or running.
- Improper or unbalanced walking posture.
- Wearing shoes without socks.
- Sporting activities that exert excess pressure on your feet or that involve repetitive motion on your hands and fingers.
- Foot deformities from birth, such as hammertoes.
Ways to prevent corns and calluses
- Put on socks every time you wear shoes. This protects your toes from friction. Also, make sure the socks are snug enough to avoid bunching up under your feet.
- Wear comfortable shoes that fit well. Shoes should be well-cushioned with shock-absorbing soles to offer support to your feet. In addition, there should be enough length and width for your toes for comfort, so there is no friction between the shoe and your toes.
- Use protective clothing such as gloves when doing manual labor or handling rough and heavy objects as they can damage the skin on your feet and hands.
- Place padded or cushioned insoles in your footwear. Your doctor may also recommend customized insoles that evenly distribute weight on your feet to prevent the formation of calluses.
- Ensure your feet are clean – wash in warm soapy water and apply a moisturizer afterward to keep them soft and supple to prevent corns and calluses from forming.
- Use powder if you have sweaty feet.
- Ensure your toenails are short by trimming them when they grow.
- Do not walk barefoot – always put on footwear.
How are corns and calluses treated?
The following home remedies may help clear up a corn or callus:
- Soak your hands or feet in warm soapy water for five to 10 minutes to soften the corns and calluses. This softens the thickened skin and makes it easier to remove.
- Use a pad to cover the area with corns or calluses. For example, you can get a cushion over the counter. However, it is essential to note that medicated corn pads contain salicylic acid, which may cause skin irritation and an infection afterward in people with medical conditions such as diabetes.
- Use a high-quality moisturizer on your hands and feet to keep your skin soft.
- Use a pumice stone or an emery board to gently rub corn or callus during or after a bath while the skin is not dry. This helps to thin the thickened skin. However, do not rub off too much skin as this may result in infection. In addition, your doctor may advise against using a pumice stone if you have diabetes.
If the corns and calluses are a result of structural deformities, your doctor may recommend surgery. For further questions on corns and calluses, book a session with your Advanced Foot, Ankle, & Wound Specialists, PA, to learn more.