What are callus and corns?
A callus is a build-up of thick, hard skin and caused by excessive pressure. The body produces callus in an attempt to protect underlying tissues.
Often calluses form causing little problem, however if the skin builds up and gets too thick it can become quite uncomfortable to walk on and sometimes burning and painful.
Depending on foot structure calluses can occur in a number of patterns as a result of clawed toes, bunions or other alignment problems.
Corns commonly occur over prominant joints or areas of very high pressure. These are compacted callous often with the consistancy of a pebble. Corns can make weight-bearing and walking extremely uncomfortable.
How do I treat painful Callus and Corns?
· Visit your podiatrist to have the callous reduced or removed using scalpel or through gentle filing.
· Use moisturising cream on the feet daily for dry skin, this helps to maintain soft, supple skin.
· Speaking to your Podiatrist about using silicone pads to absorb shock and stress through the foot.
· Soft Orthotics can often help to redistribute areas of high pressure in the foot reducing callus build-up.
WARNING : This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional podiatric advice. Treatment will vary between individuals depending upon your diagnosis and presenting complaint. An accurate diagnosis can only be made following personal consultation with a Podiatrist.
