Common foot issues that can hurt and create discomfort are calluses and corns. Despite their apparent similarities, they differ in terms of their etiology, manifestations, and modes of care. The differences between corns and calluses, their development, prevention strategies, and efficient treatment choices will all be covered in this article.
What Are Corns and Calluses?
Corns: Usually appearing on the balls of the feet or on the tips and sides of the toes, corns are tiny, thickened patches of skin. They are frequently brought on by pressure or friction from narrow shoes or unusual walking patterns. Corns may hurt, particularly when they are compressed.Calluses: Usually appearing on the soles of the feet, particularly the balls and heels, calluses are thicker, roughened areas of skin. In contrast to corns, calluses often don't hurt and form a defensive reaction to constant pressure or friction.
Abnormal Foot Mechanics: Corns and calluses are more likely to develop in those who have bunions, hammertoes, or other foot abnormalities.
Repetitive Activities: Running, walking, and prolonged standing might cause persistent pressure to develop in certain foot regions.
Causes of Corns and Calluses
Unfitting Footwear: Shoes that are too tight, narrow, or have a high heel can compress the feet, putting too much pressure and friction on them.Abnormal Foot Mechanics: Corns and calluses are more likely to develop in those who have bunions, hammertoes, or other foot abnormalities.
Repetitive Activities: Running, walking, and prolonged standing might cause persistent pressure to develop in certain foot regions.
Barefoot Walking: As a preventative measure, walking barefoot on rough surfaces might cause the skin to thicken.
Calluses and Corns Symptoms
Corns:
- Compact, round, and hard to the touch.
- Often encircled by skin that is irritated.
- Causing pain when touched or squeezed.
Calluses:
- More expansive and smoother than corns.
- Though usually harmless, discomfort is possible.
- Rough, thicker skin, frequently tinged yellow.
Prevention Tips
Put On Appropriate Shoe Fit: Select shoes with plenty of toe room and cushioning to ease the strain on your feet.Employ Protective Pads: To cushion regions of the shoe that are vulnerable to pressure and friction, insert gel or foam pads.
Keep Your Feet Moisturized: Use a moisturizer on a regular basis to keep the skin of your feet smooth and less prone to calluses and corns.
Cut Your Toenails: Corns can result from long toenails pushing toes up against the shoe. Maintain filed and trimmed nails.
Over-the-Counter Pads: Non-medicated pads help cushion calluses and corns to reduce pressure.
Moisturizing Creams: Apply thick moisturizing lotions with salicylic acid or urea to help soften calluses and lessen skin thickness.
Medical Treatment: See a podiatrist if corns or calluses become uncomfortable or infected. They may propose trimming the thicker skin or custom orthotics to restore foot mechanics.
Options for Treatment
Soaking and Exfoliating: After soaking in warm water to soften the skin, exfoliate your feet and use a pumice stone or foot file to gently file any corns or calluses.Over-the-Counter Pads: Non-medicated pads help cushion calluses and corns to reduce pressure.
Moisturizing Creams: Apply thick moisturizing lotions with salicylic acid or urea to help soften calluses and lessen skin thickness.
Medical Treatment: See a podiatrist if corns or calluses become uncomfortable or infected. They may propose trimming the thicker skin or custom orthotics to restore foot mechanics.
Avoid Self-Cutting: You risk becoming hurt or infected if you try to cut or shave calluses or corns at home.
When to See a Doctor
Even though calluses and corns are usually harmless, get medical help if:- The affected region gets bloated, red, or extremely painful.
- You get corns or calluses because you have diabetes or poor circulation.
- Pus or discharge are indications of an infection in the thickened skin.
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