Corns and calluses can happen any time of the year, but when the sun is high and the corn is on your plate instead of your foot, it’s easy to neglect your feet. So pay attention to your corns!
What is the difference between corns and calluses?
Corns
These usually form when two or more toes rub up against each other, creating a thick, inflamed underlying tissue. Hard corns will form on the bony part of your toe, and soft corns with soft cores can develop between your toes.
Calluses
A callus is a different type of thick, lacquered skin that paradoxically forms to protect the underlying skin from friction and infection. They are commonly found on the heel and ball of the foot, and underneath the big toe. Calluses are a great benefit, and your body creates them to protect you, but sometimes they can become painful and require contemplation for removal.
Some treatments for corns include:
Foam pads—Apply self-stick foam or moleskin pads on the callus or corn to reduce pressure and decrease friction against your footwear. Avoid non-prescription, over-the-counter salicylic acid applications as these can cause a chemical skin burn in healthy tissue if applied in the wrong manner.
Soak and rub—Briefly soak your feet in warm, soapy water and then use a pumice stone to gently rub the affected area. Dry thoroughly and apply an emollient cream with tea tree oil.
Moisturizing lotions— Embrace your feet in a moisturizing cream, cover with breathable socks and allow to marinate overnight. In the morning, rub softened calluses with a pumice stone to remove dead skin.
At Your Next Step, our team of board-certified podiatrists has access to advanced technologies, along with years of experience, to help diagnose and treat a variety of foot and ankle problems, including sports injuries, joint pain, toe deformities, nail fungus, chronic tendon pain, and skin problems. Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich and Dr. Aliza V. Eisen provide high quality foot and ankle care to patients in the greater Philadelphia area at our offices conveniently located in Ardmore, Paoli, and Downingtown. Please contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.