There can sometimes be unintended consequences that arise when the human body takes certain measures to protect itself. Examples of this include a bone spur pressing into soft tissue and causing pain and inflammation, or a blister that has burst open and increases the risk for infection. Similar issues can exist when corns and calluses are created. Both of these skin conditions may seem harmless enough more often than not, but there is still a potential bigger issues will develop.
Corns and Calluses
There is a common association between calluses and corns, which is logical because they are both essentially patches of thickened, dead skin the body uses for protection against frequent pressure or friction.
Certain similarities do exist between the two conditions, but there are also distinct differences as well:
- Calluses are thickened, but maintain a reasonably flat surface. They tend to be waxy-looking and are often located on parts of the body that bear weight, like the bottoms of the heels and ball of foot areas.
- Whereas a callus is typically flat, a corn is usually raised in a conical shape and might feature a center that is either harder or softer than the rest of it. These particular skin growths are more often found in areas subjected to persistent friction and not responsible for bearing weight. Sides and tops of feet, and between the toes, are common locations.
Home Treatment
For individuals who do not have diabetes, you may want to attempt the use of home remedies before contacting our office for professional treatment. If you do have diabetes, though, make sure you come to see us at the earliest opportunity for the care you need.
When it comes to home treatment for corns and calluses, remedies include:
- Over-the-counter pads. These are easily found in most pharmacies and retail stores, and wearing them might provide enough cushion to allow the skin to heal itself. It is important to avoid ones containing salicylic acid, as these can cause damage.
- Soaking affected feet. You can soften calluses and corns by soaking affected feet in warm, soapy water. This will make it easier for you to remove them with the use of an emery board or pumice stone.
- Thinning the skin. Do not attempt to perform “home surgery” by taking a knife and trying to cut out the corn or callus. Instead, thin down and smooth out the rough patch by using a pumice stone, emery board, nail file, or even a rough washcloth. When doing this, make sure you apply only a gentle, even pressure. Your goal is not to completely thin down the callus or corn in a single sitting.
- Moisturizing. Apply moisturizing cream or lotion on rough patches before you go to bed at night and then put on thick socks to trap in the moisture. You can also help restore your skin’s health by applying moisturizer following your morning bath or shower.
If home care is not providing the results you hope to see, please do not attempt to eliminate the corn or callus on your own by cutting it with a knife or razor. Doing so only increases your risk for infection, which is potentially worse than simply having a rough patch of skin. Instead, contact Advanced Foot and Ankle and have our professionals handle it for you!
Preventing Skin Issues
You can reduce your risk of having a corn or callus develop in the first place. Buy and wear shoes that fit correctly (not too big or too small). If your toes can wiggle freely and your heel is securely cradled, you likely have a good pair. In addition to footwear, use protective coverings and padding on any areas of your feet that frequently rub against the insides of your shoes.
Comprehensive Foot Care in Twin Falls, ID
Corns and calluses may not always seem like a major problem, but they might lead to a situation that increase your risk of infection. Advanced Foot and Ankle can treat your skin issues and help you take the right steps to prevent them from occurring in the future! Contact our Twin Falls office by calling (208) 731-6321 or our Burley office at (208) 312-4646 for more information or assistance in scheduling an appointment.
Are You Looking for Expert Foot Care in Twin Falls, ID?
If you are looking for foot care, you should reach out to an experienced podiatrist. Ready to schedule an appointment? Contact us online our Twin Falls office at 208.731.6321.
