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What are corns and calluses?
Corns and calluses are thickened, yellowish plaque of skin often found in places where there is friction or pressure.
Corns are smaller than calluses and often have a central core of keratin, while foot callus is a more diffuse, flattened area of thick skin.
Sometimes ‘soft’ corns may form between the toes where the skin is moist from sweat or inadequate drying.
These appear white and rubbery and are also caused by excessive friction.
Corns and calluses can be very painful and debilitating.
Pain on weight bearing is often the chief complaint.
If left untreated, they can lead to ulceration and/or infection of the affected area/s.
What causes corns and calluses?
Uneven weight distribution and abnormal foot mechanics
Poorly-fitting footwear or excessive walking or standing
Bunions
Claw toes
Arthritis in the feet
Who gets corns and calluses?
Corns and calluses can be very painful and debilitating.
Almost everyone!
In fact, calluses and corns affect more people than any other kind of foot problem.
Some people have a natural tendency to develop calluses because of their skin type.
For instance, elderly people have less fatty tissue and elasticity in their feet, people with arthritis in their feet, people who work in occupations that require them to spend a lot of time on their feet, and people with dry skin.
Treatment
Removal of the hard skin by paring it. This is relatively painless and the pain will be relieved within 48 hours, if not sooner.
Better-fitted footwear
Foot insoles/orthoses to counteract the abnormal foot mechanics and provide better cushioning.
For corns in between the toes, custom-made interdigital toe dividers are very useful
Over-the-counter remedies such as corn paint or plasters must be avoided in people who have diabetes, poor circulation, peripheral neuropathy, poor eyesight or having difficulties reaching their feet.
If you have any queries regarding foot problems or wish to discuss the health of your feet please call Hung Quan and his friendly staff at Peel Podiatry Clinic on 9586 3046.