What are corns and calluses. How do they form on feet. What treatments are available for corns and calluses. Can corns and calluses be prevented. When should you see a doctor for foot problems.

Understanding Corns and Calluses: Common Foot Conditions

Corns and calluses are thickened areas of skin that develop on the feet in response to friction or pressure. While they may seem similar, there are key differences between these two foot conditions:

• Corns typically form on the tops and sides of toes or between toes
• Calluses usually develop on the soles of the feet or outer edges of toes and heels
• Corns tend to be smaller with a hard center surrounded by inflamed skin
• Calluses are generally larger, wider, and more diffuse areas of thickened skin

Both corns and calluses serve as the body’s natural defense mechanism against repeated friction and pressure on the skin of the feet. However, in some cases, they can become painful or problematic if left untreated.

The Formation and Types of Corns on Feet

Corns develop when the skin experiences persistent rubbing or pressure, often from ill-fitting shoes. There are several types of corns that can form on different areas of the feet:

Hard Corns

Hard corns are the most common type. They typically appear on the tops of toes, especially over bony prominences or toe joints. Hard corns have a dense, compact core surrounded by thickened skin.

Soft Corns

Soft corns form between the toes, usually between the fourth and fifth toes. They have a softer, more rubbery texture due to moisture between the toes.

Seed Corns

Seed corns are tiny, seed-like corns that often appear in clusters on the bottom of the foot. They can be quite painful when they develop on weight-bearing areas.

Why do runners often develop corns? Runners frequently experience corns due to the repetitive impact and friction their feet endure during long-distance running. The constant rubbing of toes against shoes, combined with increased pressure on certain foot areas, can lead to corn formation, especially on toe joints or tips.

Callus Formation and Common Locations

Calluses are areas of thickened skin that develop in response to repeated friction or pressure. Unlike corns, calluses tend to be larger and more spread out. Common locations for calluses include:

• The ball of the foot
• The heel
• The outer edge of the big toe or small toe

Calluses often form due to biomechanical issues, such as high arches or flat feet, which can create uneven pressure distribution across the foot. They may also develop as a result of wearing shoes without proper cushioning or support.

Are calluses always harmful? While calluses are the body’s natural way of protecting the skin from excessive friction, they can become problematic if they grow too thick or crack. In most cases, however, calluses are not harmful and may even provide some protection for the feet.

Diagnosing Corns and Calluses: What to Expect During a Foot Exam

When visiting a podiatrist or foot specialist for corns or calluses, you can expect a thorough examination of your feet. The diagnostic process typically includes:

1. Visual inspection of the affected areas
2. Palpation to assess the texture and sensitivity of the thickened skin
3. Evaluation of your gait and foot structure
4. Examination of your footwear
5. Possible X-rays to identify any underlying bone abnormalities

During the exam, your doctor will differentiate between corns, calluses, and other skin conditions like warts or blisters. They will also assess for any signs of infection or more serious underlying issues.

How can you prepare for a foot exam? Before your appointment, it’s helpful to make note of when you first noticed the corn or callus, any changes in its appearance or associated pain, and the types of shoes you typically wear. This information can assist your doctor in making an accurate diagnosis and developing an effective treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Corns and Calluses

The treatment for corns and calluses depends on their severity and underlying cause. Here are some common approaches:

Conservative Treatments

• Changing to properly fitting shoes with adequate toe room and cushioning
• Using protective pads or insoles to reduce friction and pressure
• Applying moisturizing lotions to keep the skin soft and supple
• Gently filing down thickened skin with a pumice stone or foot file

Medical Interventions

• Professional trimming or shaving of the corn or callus by a podiatrist
• Prescription of custom orthotic devices to correct biomechanical issues
• Application of salicylic acid patches to gradually remove the thickened skin
• Cortisone injections to reduce pain and inflammation in severe cases

Surgical Options

In rare cases where corns or calluses are caused by bone deformities or misalignments, surgery may be recommended. This could involve procedures to correct toe deformities or realign bones to reduce pressure on problematic areas.

Is it safe to remove corns or calluses at home? While gentle at-home care can be beneficial, it’s important to avoid aggressive self-treatment, especially if you have diabetes or circulatory issues. Never attempt to cut or shave corns or calluses yourself, as this can lead to infection or injury.

Preventing Corns and Calluses: Proactive Foot Care

Taking steps to prevent corns and calluses can save you from discomfort and potential foot problems. Here are some effective prevention strategies:

• Wear properly fitting shoes with adequate toe room and arch support
• Use cushioned insoles or orthotics to distribute pressure evenly
• Rotate your shoes regularly to vary pressure points on your feet
• Keep your feet moisturized to maintain skin elasticity
• Wear moisture-wicking socks to reduce friction
• Regularly inspect your feet for signs of irritation or skin changes
• Address any underlying foot deformities or gait issues with professional help

For athletes and runners, additional preventive measures may include:

• Choosing sport-specific shoes designed for your activity
• Gradually breaking in new running shoes
• Using blister-prevention products on high-friction areas
• Paying attention to proper running form and biomechanics

How often should you replace your running shoes? As a general rule, running shoes should be replaced every 400-500 miles or every 4-6 months for regular runners. However, this can vary based on factors such as running style, body weight, and the surfaces you run on.

When to Seek Professional Help for Foot Problems

While many corns and calluses can be managed with self-care, there are situations where professional medical attention is necessary. You should consult a podiatrist or foot specialist if:

• The corn or callus is causing significant pain or interfering with daily activities
• You notice signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or discharge
• You have diabetes, poor circulation, or neuropathy
• The corn or callus is cracking or bleeding
• You have a history of ulcers or slow-healing wounds on your feet
• Conservative treatments have not improved the condition after several weeks
• You suspect an underlying bone or joint problem

Early intervention can prevent minor foot issues from developing into more serious problems. A foot specialist can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend appropriate treatments tailored to your specific needs.

What should you expect during your first visit to a podiatrist? During your initial consultation, the podiatrist will likely perform a thorough examination of your feet, discuss your medical history and lifestyle factors, and may order imaging tests if necessary. They will then develop a personalized treatment plan to address your foot concerns.

The Impact of Footwear on Corn and Callus Development

The shoes you wear play a crucial role in the development and prevention of corns and calluses. Ill-fitting or poorly designed footwear is a leading cause of these foot problems. Here’s how different aspects of shoes can affect your foot health:

Shoe Size and Fit

Shoes that are too tight can cause excessive pressure and friction on specific areas of the feet, leading to corn and callus formation. Conversely, shoes that are too loose can allow the foot to slide around, also causing friction.

Toe Box Shape

Narrow or pointed toe boxes can compress the toes, increasing the risk of corns developing on top of or between the toes. A wider, more rounded toe box allows for natural toe spread and reduces pressure points.

Heel Height

High heels shift body weight onto the ball of the foot, potentially leading to callus formation in this area. They can also cause the toes to be pushed forward, increasing friction and pressure on the toes.

Shoe Material and Construction

Stiff or non-breathable materials can increase friction and moisture buildup, contributing to corn and callus development. Shoes with seams or stitching that rub against the foot can also be problematic.

Arch Support and Cushioning

Inadequate arch support or cushioning can lead to uneven pressure distribution across the foot, potentially causing calluses to form on weight-bearing areas.

How can you ensure your shoes fit properly? When shopping for shoes, always have your feet measured, try on shoes later in the day when your feet are slightly swollen, and ensure there’s about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Walk around in the shoes to check for any areas of discomfort or rubbing.

The Role of Biomechanics in Foot Health

Biomechanical factors play a significant role in the development of corns and calluses. Understanding these factors can help in prevention and treatment:

Foot Structure

Certain foot types, such as high arches or flat feet, can create areas of increased pressure or friction, leading to corn and callus formation.

Gait Abnormalities

Issues with how you walk, such as overpronation (excessive inward rolling of the foot) or supination (outward rolling), can cause uneven pressure distribution and contribute to callus development.

Toe Deformities

Conditions like hammertoes, claw toes, or bunions can create prominent areas on the toes that are more susceptible to corn formation due to increased friction against shoes.

Bone Misalignments

Structural issues in the foot bones, such as a prominent metatarsal head, can create pressure points that lead to callus formation.

How can biomechanical issues be addressed? A podiatrist or foot specialist can perform a gait analysis and assess your foot structure to identify any biomechanical problems. They may recommend custom orthotics, specific exercises, or in some cases, corrective surgery to address these issues and reduce the risk of corn and callus formation.

Special Considerations for Athletes and Active Individuals

Athletes and those who lead active lifestyles may be more prone to developing corns and calluses due to the increased stress placed on their feet. Here are some specific considerations for this group:

Sport-Specific Footwear

Different sports require different types of footwear. Ensure you’re using shoes designed for your specific activity, whether it’s running, tennis, basketball, or hiking. These shoes are engineered to provide the right support and protection for the movements involved in each sport.

Training Intensity and Duration

Gradually increasing the intensity and duration of your training can help your feet adapt to increased stress. Sudden changes in your routine can lead to excessive friction and pressure, potentially causing corns and calluses.

Cross-Training

Incorporating a variety of activities into your fitness routine can help distribute stress across different areas of your feet, reducing the risk of developing corns and calluses in specific spots.

Foot Care Routine

Athletes should develop a regular foot care routine that includes inspecting feet for signs of irritation, moisturizing to keep skin supple, and addressing any hot spots or areas of discomfort promptly.

Recovery and Rest

Allowing adequate time for foot recovery between training sessions or competitions is crucial. This gives the skin time to repair and adapt to stresses.

How can athletes prevent blisters, which can lead to corns? Athletes can use blister-prevention strategies such as applying lubricants or specialized patches to high-friction areas, wearing moisture-wicking socks, and ensuring proper shoe fit. Some athletes find success with “double-socking” or using toe socks to reduce friction between toes.

Holistic Approaches to Foot Health

Maintaining overall foot health goes beyond just addressing corns and calluses. A holistic approach to foot care can help prevent various foot problems and contribute to better overall health. Consider the following aspects:

Nutrition

A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin D, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids, can contribute to skin health and bone strength. Proper hydration is also crucial for maintaining skin elasticity.

Exercise

Regular foot exercises can help strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility in your feet. This can lead to better foot function and reduced risk of developing problems like corns and calluses.

Stress Management

High stress levels can affect your overall health, including your feet. Stress can lead to tension in the body, altering your gait and potentially contributing to foot problems.

Regular Check-ups

Schedule regular check-ups with a podiatrist, especially if you have risk factors like diabetes or circulation problems. Early detection and treatment of foot issues can prevent more serious complications.

Foot Hygiene

Maintain good foot hygiene by washing your feet daily, drying them thoroughly (especially between the toes), and changing socks regularly to prevent fungal infections and excessive moisture.

How can you incorporate foot health into your daily routine? Consider starting and ending your day with a brief foot inspection and gentle foot massage. This can help you become more aware of changes in your feet and promote relaxation and circulation.

By taking a comprehensive approach to foot health, you can not only prevent corns and calluses but also improve your overall foot function and comfort. Remember, healthy feet are the foundation for an active and pain-free lifestyle.

Corns & Calluses — Foot and Ankle Specialists

WHAT ARE CORNS & CALLUSES?

Corns and calluses are your body’s response to friction or pressure against the skin. If your foot rubs inside your shoe, the affected area of skin thickens. Of if a bone is not in the normal position, skin caught between bone and shoe or bone and ground builds up. In either case, the outer layer of skin thickens to protect the foot from unusual pressure. In many cases, corns and calluses look bad but are not harmful. However, more
severe corns and calluses may become infected, destroy healthy tissue, or affect foot movement. But with your doctor’s help, corns and calluses can be controlled.

WHERE DO CORNS & CALLUSES FORM?

A corn or callus is a thickening of the outer layer of skin on your foot. Corns usually grow on top of the foot, often at a toe joint. Calluses spread on the bottom of the foot or on the outer edge of a toe or the heel.

Corns
Corns can range from a slight thickening of skin to a painful, hard bump. They often form on top of buckled toe joints (hammer toes). If your toes curl under, corns may grow on the tips of the toes. You may also get a corn on the end of a toe if it rubs against your shoe. Corns also grow between toes, often between the first and second toes.

Calluses
A callus may spread across the ball of your foot. This type of callus is usually due to a problem with a metatarsal (the long bone at the base of a toe, near the ball of the foot). A pinch callus may grow along the outer edge of the heel or the big toe. Some calluses press up into the foot instead of spreading on the outside. A callus may form a central core or plug of tissue where pressure is greatest.

Your Physical Exam

Your doctor will check your feet for skin changes, such as red areas, blisters, and warts. He or she will also look for corns and calluses. If you have a buckled toe joint, your doctor may test its flexibility. He or she may also look for a misaligned bone or collapsed joint. An x-ray may be taken to pinpoint a suspected bone problem. Your doctor may check for corns between your toes.

TREATING CORNS & CALLUSES

If your corns or calluses are mild, reducing friction may help. Different shoes, moleskin patches, or soft pads may be all the treatment you need. In more severe cases, treating tissue buildup may require your doctor’s care. Sometimes orthoses (custom-made shoe inserts) are prescribed to reduce friction and pressure.

Change Shoes
If you have corns, your doctor may suggest wearing shoes that have more toe room. This way, buckled joints are less likely to be pinched against the top of the shoe. If you have calluses, wearing a cushioned insole, arch support, or heel counter can help reduce friction.

Visit Your Doctor
In some cases, your doctor may trim away the outer layers of skin that make up the corn or callus. For a painful corn, medication may be injected beneath the built-up tissue.

Wear Orthoses
Orthoses are specially made to meet the needs of your feet. They cushion calluses or divert pressure away from these problem areas. Worn as directed, orthoses help limit existing problems and prevent new ones from forming.

If a bone or joint is out of place, certain parts of your foot may be under too much pressure. This can cause severe corns and calluses. In such cases, surgery is often the best way to correct the problem.

Outpatient Procedures
In most cases, surgery to improve bone position is an outpatient procedure. Your doctor may shave or cut away excess bone. Sometimes tendons or ligaments are cut to reduce tension on a bone or joint. Your doctor will talk with you about the procedure that is best suited to your needs.

Corns caused by repeated damage to skin

Dear Doctors: I run a lot and developed a growth on the knuckle of my second toe. It’s hard, with a sharp point in the middle, and it hurts. I thought it was a callus, but my running coach says it’s a corn. I thought only older people got those. Will it go away on its own?

Dear Reader: A corn is a small, round area of thickened and hardened skin. Those that form on the top of the foot, typically in the bony regions of the toes, are known as hard corns. Soft corns, which have a pliable surface and a springy, almost rubbery, texture, form between the toes.

Corns can also occur on the bottoms of the feet. These are typically quite small, with a seedlike appearance that gives them their name. This type of corn often appears in clusters. When seed corns develop on the weight-bearing portion of the foot, they can be quite painful.

As with a callus, corns form because the skin has sustained repeated damage from pressure, friction or both. This often results from footwear that is too tight or fits poorly. To protect itself from further injury, the skin develops a physical barrier made up of tougher cells. Corns are different from calluses in that they are smaller and deeper. Calluses can develop anywhere, but corns occur in areas where a bone exerts pressure on the skin.

Unlike calluses, corns are often tender or painful. This is due to their central core, which is the sharp point that you described. It forms around the area of damage that the skin is trying to protect.

It is true that corns become more common as we get older. This is often due to the age-related physical changes that take place in the foot and in the gait, which can then affect the fit of someone’s existing shoes or socks. Osteoarthritis can also affect the bones of the foot and lead to corn formation.

Elizabeth Ko, MD and Eve Glazier, MD

Corns don’t go away on their own, so it’s important to take steps to mitigate them. Untreated, they can get infected and have an adverse effect on posture, gait and alignment. Begin by assessing your footwear. Shoes that are too loose or too tight can cause the pressure and friction that cause corns. So can long toenails. As a runner, you might also consider if something in your stride or foot placement has changed.

To treat a corn, soften the area daily in warm water, then gently rub with a pumice stone. Only remove the topmost layers of dead cells each time, as taking too much can damage healthy skin. Use moisturizer to keep the area soft, and protect it from further damage with doughnut-shaped corn pads. These are available at drugstores. Corn-removal products, which use salicylic acid to thin the skin, can be effective. However, they are not recommended for anyone with poor circulation.

If a corn doesn’t respond to treatment, see your health care provider. Never try to cut or shave a corn, as this can lead to a serious infection.

At UCLA Health, our dermatologists and dermatology surgeons provide advanced care in a compassionate environment. Learn more and schedule an appointment.

(Send your questions to [email protected], or write: Ask the Doctors, c/o UCLA Health Sciences Media Relations, 10960 Wilshire Blvd. , Suite 1955, Los Angeles, CA, 90024. Owing to the volume of mail, personal replies cannot be provided.)

How to get rid of corns on the feet, types of corns, pharmacy preparations, folk recipes

Attention!

The presented material is for informational purposes and is aimed at podologists who can take a refresher course on this topic.

SNTA is an educational organization and therefore does not offer treatment consultations. Our specialists can only provide assistance in obtaining additional professional education – refresher courses and professional retraining.

Corns are a problem that every modern person has inevitably faced at least once. Uncomfortable shoes, long walks or work on your feet, thin skin – there are many reasons that contribute to the appearance of this unpleasant formation.

How to get rid of dry corns on the finger?

How to quickly get rid of calluses on the legs?

Corns on the legs: how to get rid of?

How to get rid of corns at home

How to get rid of calluses on the foot?

How to get rid of calluses between fingers?

In addition to the fact that corns look unaesthetic, they are sometimes very painful. Since few people are willing to endure discomfort, there are probably a thousand and one ways to get rid of the problem with the help of drugs and products that can be found in any home. The effectiveness of such “grandfather’s” methods has not been proven, however, recipes for medicinal mixtures are passed down from generation to generation, which proves their relevance.

How to get rid of dry corns on the finger?

To begin with, it is worth noting the fact that corns are divided into two types:

• dry;
• wet.

Dry corns, they are also corns, are most easily removed with a rough pedicure file or an ordinary pumice stone. The best effect is achieved if problem areas are treated dry, without steaming.

Those who still cannot do without preliminary softening of the skin are recommended to dip their feet for half an hour in a mixture of soda (2 tablespoons), liquid soap (2 tablespoons) and hot water. Such a bath will soften the roughened epidermis and help remove corns faster than in the case of dry grinding.

Another option is to apply salicylic ointment (10%) to the corn at night. Fans of homemade recipes can make a homemade compress from the pulp of black bread soaked in vinegar or lemon juice, with the addition of grated lemon zest. Regardless of which method you like, after lubricating the corns on your foot, you need to put on a plastic bag and a warm sock. In the morning, all that remains is to cut off the already soft and pliable skin.

If we talk about pharmacy products, then a special medical plaster helps to effectively get rid of corns. It is glued on pre-steamed legs and changed every 24 hours for 3-4 days (until the corn completely disappears).

Now the question of how to get rid of corns-corns will no longer arise for you.

How to quickly get rid of calluses on the legs?

The second type of consequence of wearing tight shoes is water (wet) calluses. The fastest way to get rid of them is a puncture. This method is ambiguous, since if the corn is damaged, there is a chance of infection. However, it cannot be denied that corns freed from fluid heal much better than unpierced ones.

If you still decide to “dry” the corn, then take care of sterility in advance: wash your hands thoroughly and the problem area itself, ignite the tip of the needle on fire or disinfect it with alcohol, prepare a napkin / gauze disinfected with an antiseptic to absorb the ichor from the corn.

After the corn is pierced, it must be treated with an antimicrobial ointment and sealed with a medical plaster. At night, you can additionally apply agents that accelerate tissue regeneration.

You can learn more about the rules of nutrition, the principles of forming a reasonable diet at the 7-module certification course in dietetics and nutrition from the leading nutritionist Oleg Iryshkin.

Corns on the legs: how to get rid of?

Calluses are hard, rough patches of skin with a dot (speck) in the center. They do not have a cavity, but they have a rod that goes deep into the thickness of the epidermis.

Corns are the result of ignoring corns. The problem is localized most often on the heels and on the balls of the toes. People who wear uncomfortable shoes, suffer from fungal or viral skin lesions, and often injure their legs (athletes, ballerinas, etc.) are at risk of earning such an unpleasant defect.

It is possible to remove corns with a rod at home, but it is highly not recommended to do it yourself. The fact is that inept manipulations with periodically inflamed calluses are dangerous not only with an increased likelihood of infection, but also with the risk of injury to the deep layers of the epidermis.

If you find a corn with a dot inside, it is better to immediately contact a dermatologist who will offer you one of three options for solving the problem:

1. Callus removal with a special cutter (the depression formed in the skin is filled with an antiseptic).
2. Callus removal with liquid nitrogen.
3. Removal of corns with a carbon dioxide laser (the most modern and effective method for the treatment of core corns, eliminating the risk of inflammation).

All of the above procedures are painless, however, with increased sensitivity, they can be performed using local anesthesia.

How to get rid of corns at home

If for some reason it is not possible to consult a specialist, there are several methods for eliminating corns at home. All techniques are based on the initial softening of the corn and its subsequent mechanical removal.

For the first stage – softening – a patch with salicylic acid is most often used, which is glued to the problem area, and then fixed with a bandage or any other fixative. You need to wear a patch for several days, after which you can try to remove the corn core mechanically. In the case of a successful “operation”, the recess remaining in the skin must be treated with iodine and sealed with a plaster until it heals completely.

If attention was paid to the problem in the early stages, then the removal of the corn will pass quickly and without much discomfort, but if the situation is started, then the first attempt to remove the rod may fail: the “cap” of the corn will be removed, but subsequent manipulations will be very painful.

Even taking into account the possibility of getting rid of corns on your own at home, in order to avoid complications, it is better to contact a qualified dermatologist.

How to get rid of corns on the foot?

Calluses on the feet are a common problem, the solution of which is hampered by the constant load on this place in the process of walking. If you do not take into account specialized creams, oils, ointments and patches sold in any pharmacy, you can also get rid of calluses on your feet with folk recipes.

So, for example, steaming the skin in a bath of hot water diluted with a strong decoction of chamomile helps to cope with corns. It takes half an hour to soften the rough skin of the legs, after which the problem area must be carefully treated with a pumice stone, wiped dry and lubricated with a nourishing cream or fatty oil (olive, almond, sandalwood). To enhance the effect, you need to put on socks and take a horizontal position for a while so that the skin is maximally moisturized and softened.

It is important to remember that neither folk nor pharmacy remedies for corns will help if you continue to wear uncomfortable, tight shoes. Sawn off corns will simply return in a more severe form.

How to get rid of corns between fingers?

To understand how to get rid of calluses on the legs, including between the fingers, you need to know what causes the problem.

The frequent appearance of corns is facilitated by diseases such as:

• rheumatoid arthritis, arthrosis;
• obesity;
• permanent swelling of the extremities;
• flat feet;
• gout;
• bursitis;
• arteritis.

Vitamin A deficiency can also play a decisive role, therefore, with constant problems with the skin of the legs, one should first of all pay attention to the state of health.

You can soften the epidermis by adding the following ingredients to hot water intended for baths:

• salt/soda/vinegar;
• soap/shower gel/bath foam;
• decoction of oak bark/chamomile.

After cutting the corns, folk healers suggest making compresses from:

• tomatoes;
• lemons;
• mashed boiled potatoes;
• onion/garlic juice;
• prunes boiled in milk.

Professional callus treatment

In the event of corns or other problems, it is important to understand that the best way out of the situation is to contact a qualified specialist. Engaged in the treatment of pathologies of the foot and the care of her podiatrist.

In Russia, specialists without medical education, but who have received appropriate training, can also work as podologists. In addition, the profession involves the constant development and improvement of professional skills, which can be achieved in the advanced training courses “Podology”.

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Corns on the feet, corns on the toe, treatment of corns, how to treat corns

Calluses occur in any area body that is subjected to constant friction, whether the fingertips of a guitarist or the palms of a mechanic. But most often, corns appear on the feet due to improperly selected shoes. In hot weather, the problem of corns is especially relevant, as the feet sweat and swell, and even initially comfortable shoes at the end of the day can become tight and begin to rub the skin of the feet.

A callus is a hard, thickened area of ​​skin that forms as a result of friction or pressure on the skin. The formation of calluses is designed by nature to protect the skin underneath. And the best prevention is to protect your feet from external irritation.

Tatyana Krasyuk

specialist podologist, head of the center of podology and osteopathy

— To prevent calluses from forming, it is important to choose the right shoes. When trying on, pay attention to whether the shoes do not rub or press, for example – after all, the average shoes are not suitable for our Russian feet. Everyone should know the features of their foot – we are all very individual, someone’s foot is narrow, someone’s is wide, someone’s second toe is longer than the first, and someone’s fifth toe is raised. So the right shoes are the basis of the basics.

Victoria Melashenko

podiatrist at the German medical technology clinic GMTClinic

– The formation of corns most often occurs due to pressure on the skin of the feet of improperly fitting shoes, however, the structure of the foot or heredity may be the cause. So, too narrow shoes with heels leads to improper distribution of the load on the feet. Due to constant excessive pressure, the body’s defenses stimulate the thickening and thickening of the skin in these areas, hyperkeratosis develops, popularly called corns. With prolonged exposure to the pressure factor, the situation worsens and a deeper skin lesion develops – a corn. If the problem is not resolved in time, an area of ​​inflammation forms around the corn, necrotic processes are triggered, which is extremely dangerous for the body as a whole.

How to try to get rid of corns at home

1. Soak your feet in warm water for 7-10 minutes until the skin softens.
2. Use a pumice stone. First dip the pumice stone in warm water, then use circular motions to remove dead skin.
3. Be careful not to scrape too much skin. This may cause bleeding and infection.
4. Apply a moisturizing lotion or cream to the affected area daily. Find a moisturizing lotion or cream with salicylic acid, ammonium lactate, or urea. These ingredients will help to gradually soften hardened calluses.
5. Use shock-absorbing shoe pads. To protect calluses from further irritation while walking, cut two crescent-shaped pieces of Band-Aid and stick around the callus. To prevent contact of the callus with the shoes, surround the affected area with special foam pads – you can find them in the nearest pharmacy.
6. Keep your toenails trimmed. Nails that are too long can cause the toes to bend, they will contact the shoe, and sooner or later chafing will form.

Why you need to contact a specialist

Victoria Melashenko

podiatrist at the German medical technology clinic GMTClinic

— Treatment of corns is best done by the hands of experienced podiatrists. There are several ways to get rid of calluses. Depending on the features of the foot and the “neglect” of the case, a podologist will select the best option, for example, grinding the feet with specialized cutters of various degrees of abrasiveness, including those with the finest diamond coating. Hollow cutters of a special shape allow you to remove deep core calluses. The resurfacing procedure is bloodless and painless, but the podologist who performs it requires experience and skill to completely remove the callus or hyperkeratosis without affecting healthy tissue. In addition, the removal of corns should be carried out on a professional medical pedicure machine under strict sterility conditions.

Tatyana Krasyuk

specialist podologist, head of the center of podology and osteopathy

– Let’s say you have had a corn for so long that you got used to it and somehow turn your foot in the shoe so that you can still move around. But suddenly this callus begins to turn red, you feel twitches, swelling appears, the temperature rises in this part of the body. Then you can safely suspect that a purulent process is ripening inside. In this case, there is a high risk that the pus will break through not outward, but towards the bone, which can lead to the development of osteomyelitis (purulent inflammation of the bone), and as a result, to open surgery on the feet.

You need to contact highly specialized specialists with extensive experience. Let me give you one example first. A 46-year-old patient came to us with a complaint that he had corns for many years and was trying to get rid of them. I asked how exactly, and he replied: “I put raw meat.” We understand that this is absolute nonsense. Folk methods of this kind adversely affect the condition of our skin, for example, when acetic acid is kneaded, vegetable or olive oil is added and applied to the affected area. This is unacceptable, because acetic acid will simply leave a burn, and then a person will not be able to walk at all.