Both corns and calluses are build-ups of hard skin on the feet which can be tender and painful. They can be frustrating, too, because when you get rid of one, another always seems to appear. Here, we give you tips on how to get rid of corns and calluses – not just once, but for good…
What Are Corns And Calluses?
Corns and calluses are both hardened lumps of skin. Corns are smaller and usually appear on bony areas (such as toes) and in between the toes. Calluses are larger patches of rough skin that tend to appear on the underside of the foot. Both can cause pain, particularly when you are wearing shoes.
How To Treat Them…
Corns and calluses can be treated in the same way. Most people can try treating them at home at first, but if you have any pre existing issues with your feet, or conditions such as diabetes, then you should visit a podiatrist rather than trying at-home treatments. Otherwise, you can try:
- Soaking your feet in warm water, for about five to ten minutes or until the skin has softened.
- When you have done this, use a pumice stone to gently file the area of hardened skin. Make sure that you do not use too much pressure – you shouldn’t feel any pain.
- Apply a good moisturising cream daily. You will want to use one which does not contain too many perfumes or other ingredients that could aggravate your skin.
How To Make Sure Corns And Calluses Stay Away…
When you have got rid of corns and calluses, it’s important to find out the reason you got them in the first place. Then, you have more chance of avoiding them in the future. Here are some of the main reasons that they appear:
- Ill-fitting shoes, or shoes which don’t have much cushioning. Tight shoes (including high heels) squeeze areas of your feet and that pressure can lead to corns and calluses. If your shoes are too loose, the sliding and rubbing can irritate your skin, leading to a build-up of skin. Try getting your feet professionally measured, and make sure that any shoes you buy are comfortable and well-fitting.
- Not wearing socks. If you often wear sandals or other shoes without socks, your feet will be missing that extra layer of cushioning that helps to cushion your skin.
- Spending a lot of time on your feet. If you do a lot of walking or running, you may be more prone to corns and calluses. Make sure that you wear good, well-fitting running shoes and change them promptly when they begin to erode.
Prevention Tips for Corns and Calluses
Preventing corns and calluses is crucial for maintaining healthy, comfortable feet. By adopting a few proactive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing these painful skin conditions. Here are some effective prevention tips:
Choose the Right Footwear: Foot health begins with the right shoes. Look for footwear that fits properly—neither too tight nor too loose. Shoes with ample toe room, supportive arches, and cushioned soles can prevent unnecessary pressure and friction. For those who occasionally wear high heels or tighter shoes, consider limiting their use to reduce stress on your feet.
Wear Well-Fitted Socks: Socks act as a protective layer between your skin and your shoes. Opt for socks made from breathable materials such as cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics to keep your feet dry and prevent skin irritation. Ensure your socks fit well without bunching up, as this can contribute to the development of corns and calluses.
Maintain Good Foot Hygiene: Keeping your feet clean and dry is crucial. Wash your feet daily with soap and warm water, making sure to dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. This can prevent the build-up of dead skin that leads to corns and calluses.
Regularly Moisturise Your Feet: After cleaning your feet, apply a high-quality foot cream or moisturiser to keep the skin soft and supple. This helps prevent the skin from drying out and becoming hard or cracked, which can lead to calluses.
Conduct Periodic Foot Self-Checks: Regularly inspect your feet for any early signs of corns, calluses, or other foot abnormalities. Early detection can lead to simpler treatments and prevent the conditions from worsening.
Use Protective Pads or Cushions: If you are prone to corns or calluses, consider using non-medicated pads or cushions to protect areas of your feet that are subject to pressure. These can be particularly helpful for individuals who spend long hours on their feet.
By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you can maintain healthier feet and minimise the chances of developing corns and calluses. Remember, while these tips are effective for prevention, consult a podiatrist if you frequently develop these conditions, as it may indicate an underlying issue that requires professional care.
Advanced Care Options for Stubborn Corns and Calluses
While home treatments can be effective for managing corns and calluses, some persistent cases may require professional intervention. If you find that your corns and calluses repeatedly return or never fully resolve, it might be time to consider advanced care options available at podiatry clinics. These treatments are designed to address severe or stubborn cases more effectively and can ensure that you receive the best care for your specific needs.
Orthotic Solutions: Custom orthotics are specially designed insoles that you place inside your shoes to correct foot alignment and redistribute pressure across the foot. By targeting the underlying causes of corns and calluses, such as poor foot alignment or uneven weight distribution, orthotics can prevent their recurrence and provide lasting relief.
Professional-Grade Skin Softeners: Podiatrists often recommend or use stronger skin softening agents that are not available over the counter. These products can soften thick, hardened skin more effectively, making it easier to reduce through less invasive methods.
Medically Supervised Skin Removal Techniques: In some cases, a podiatrist may need to remove hard skin or trim a corn or callus using safe, sterile instruments. This type of treatment should only be done by a professional to avoid the risk of infection or damaging healthy surrounding skin.
Injectable Therapies: For extremely painful corns, especially those on the toes, your podiatrist might suggest corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. This can provide relief and aid in the healing process, especially in conjunction with other treatments.
Laser Therapy: Some clinics offer laser treatments to safely and effectively reduce the thickness of calluses and soften the skin. Laser therapy can also promote natural healing by stimulating circulation to the affected areas.
Seeking the help of a podiatrist not only ensures that you are choosing the right treatment but also provides access to these advanced care options. These professionals can offer comprehensive care plans tailored to your specific conditions, ensuring the health and comfort of your feet. If you’re struggling with stubborn corns or calluses, consider booking an appointment at a reputable podiatry clinic to explore these advanced treatment options.
Banish Them For Good With A Visit To A Podiatrist
Whilst at-home treatments may work for some, a podiatrist will be able to properly diagnose your issues and give you professional help and advice to get you moving again. At Northwich Foot Clinic, our podiatrists are highly skilled and experienced in the treatment of corns and calluses. You can book your appointment through our online booking system.
