Corns and Calluses on the Feet - 4 Easy Ways on How to Prevent Them

It is hard to keep corn on foot and calluses at bay, but there are some simple things you can do

Ray Nguyen

April 8, 2023

Corn on foot and calluses on foot are notorious for being hard to treat and manage, but there are some simple things you can do at home to help keep them at bay. In this article, we'll introduce you to the types of corns and calluses that commonly occur, how they form, and some tips on how to prevent them from happening in the first place.

What are Corns and Calluses

Corns and calluses are common skin conditions that can occur in any part of the body. They are caused by inflammation and overuse of the skin and can be prevented by following some simple tips.

What are corns? Corns are small, hard bumps that form on the skin due to friction or pressure. Corns most commonly occur on the feet, but can also be found on other parts of the body, including the hands and elbows.

What are calluses? Calluses are larger, harder bumps that form on the skin due to repeated friction or pressure. They can be found on any part of the body, but tend to occur more often on the feet, hands, and balls of the feet.

Both corns and calluses can become infected if not treated properly. Corns can also lead to cornsplitting, a condition in which two or more cornicles (tiny horns) form on top of each other on the corn. Calluses can become infected and cause ulcers. Both conditions may need to be treated with antibiotics in order to prevent them from spreading further.

Corns and Calluses Are Common Foot Problems That Can Be Easily Prevented

Here are four tips to help keep your feet healthy and free of corns and calluses:

1. Wear shoes that fit well. Make sure the shoes are tight enough around the heel and toe but not so tight that they are uncomfortable. Wearing shoes that are too tight can cause corns and calluses to develop.

2. Keep your feet clean. Wash your feet daily with soap and water, using a gentle scrub if necessary. Let your feet air-dry afterwards. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives on your skin, as this may cause damage and increase the risk of developing corns or calluses.

3. Trim your toenails properly. Toenails that are too long can cause problems such as corns and calluses. Trim them short every two to four weeks to prevent these problems from occurring. If you do get a corn or callus, don't try to pop it - see a doctor instead.

4. Use foot cream regularly. A good foot cream will moisturize and protect your skin from dryness and cracking, which can lead to corns and calluses forming. Apply foot cream twice a day - before bedtime

The Types of Corns and Calluses That Are Most Common, and How to Treat Them

Corns and calluses are common on the feet and hands, but they can also occur on other parts of the body. Corns form when hard skin cells build up in the corn, while calluses form when the skin becomes thickened and tough. There are three types of corns and calluses: plantar, digital, and interdigital.

Plantar corn is the most common type and forms on the bottom of the foot. To treat it, you can use a pumice stone to remove the built-up skin cells or soak it in a hot bath with Epsom salts. If the corn is severe or doesn't go away after treatment, you may need to have it surgically removed.

Digital corn is found on the balls of your feet and can be quite painful. To treat it, you can use a pumice stone or file to remove the built-up skin cells. If the corn is severe or doesn't go away after treatment, you may need to have it surgically removed.

Interdigital corn forms between your toes and can be quite painful. To treat it, you can soak in a hot bath with Epsom salts or use a pumice stone.

How to Treat Corns and Calluses at Home

If you're like most people, you've probably experienced corns and calluses at some point in your life. And if you haven't, you're not alone. Corns and calluses are common, especially in people who have to walk or work on hard surfaces often.

Here's how to prevent them from happening in the first place:

1. Keep your feet dry and clean. Moisture breeds fungus and fungus is the root of corns and calluses. So make sure to keep your feet clean and dry all the time – both when you're bathing and when you're walking around outside.

2. Wear proper shoes. If you wear shoes that are too tight or too big, they can be rubbing against your feet constantly, which will cause friction and eventually calluses or corns. And make sure that the shoes you choose are made for walking or working on hard surfaces – not just for going out for a walk!

3. Use a corn-removal tool. If you can't avoid getting corns or calluses, at least try to remove them quickly with a corn-removal tool – this will minimize the pain and chances of infection.

4. Warm the tool before using it. If you're going to use a corn-removal tool, make sure to heat it up first – this will help soften the corn and make it easier to remove.

5. Don't over-remove the corn. If you remove too much corn, you could end up with a raw or irritated area that's very difficult to heal. So be gentle and take your time – you'll get the job done in the end!

Podiatrists Can Help with Corn Removal and Callus Treatment

Have you considered visiting a podiatry clinic in Sydney? Corns and calluses are a common problem for many people. They can be caused by wearing shoes that are too tight or by not wearing socks enough. Podiatrists can help you prevent them from happening in the first place.

Podiatrists can diagnose your foot problems and recommend the best treatment plan for you. They can also recommend shoes that fit comfortably and socks that protect your feet from the elements. They can also help you learn how to care for your feet properly so that corns and calluses don't happen again.

If corns or calluses are severe or cause pain, you may need to see a foot specialist.

If you have any questions about corns and calluses or would like to schedule an appointment with our podiatrist, please contact our Marrickville podiatry clinic.




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