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Your Foot Book Simple Cure for Corns, Calluses and Bunions Calluses and corns are one of the most common painful foot problems, causing suffering for millions of people each year. Calluses and corns are caused when repeated excessive friction or pressure on the skin causes the outer, dead layer of skin (epidermis) to thicken as a protective layer. When this happens on the bottom of the foot, we call it a callus; on the top of the foot, a corn; and in between the toes, a soft corn. When the skin becomes too thick, it can become painful, requiring treatment. Fortunately, the conservative treatment of calluses and corns almost always is successful. First, the source of excessive pressure must be determined. In most cases, your shoe is the culprit—either the wrong shape for your foot or sized inappropriately. Changing to a soft, roomy, properly fitted shoe often is the solution. Moisturizing your foot’s skin daily and wearing a good sock also cuts down on friction. A pumice stone or nail file may be used to file down calluses, but you should avoid cutting calluses and performing "bathroom surgery," due to the risk of infection. Patients who are diabetic should have their corns and calluses managed professionally by their primary care physician or an orthopaedic foot and ankle specialist because of the high risk of infection. Sometimes, as we get older, the superficial layer of fat under the skin atrophies or shrinks, leaving little fat pad behind. This can cause increased calluses on the sole or sides of the foot. Soft, over-the-counter foot inlays or custom molded "orthotic inlays" that fit in your shoe may help absorb shock and distribute pressure more evenly. Occasionally, corns and calluses are caused by an actual foot deformity rubbing against a shoe that normally would fit. Examples include a bunion deformity, claw toe , or hammer toe deformity. In these cases, a special shoe or special bunion pads, corn pads , or gel separators may help. In severe cases, corrective surgery sometimes is needed. In summary, most corns and calluses can be treated simply and inexpensively. For more information, consult your primary care physician or an orthopaedic foot and ankle specialist. This material does not constitute medical advice. It is intended for informational purposes only. Foot Menders will not answer medical questions via email. Please consult a physician for specific treatment recommendations. |
