Corns and Calluses
Corns and calluses occur when there is excess or thickening of the skin, usually on the soles of the feet.
What are Corns and Calluses?
Calluses usually develop on the sole of the foot, especially the ball and heel. They are rough, thickened patches of skin which are rarely painful.
Corns are smaller than calluses and develop on parts of the foot which aren't weight bearing, for example the tops or sides of the toes, due to friction. They can be tender when touched.
What Causes Them?
Poor foot biomechanics can cause excess pressure on certain areas of the foot. This excess pressure causes hypertrophy of the skin (excess skin growing).
Treatment of Corns and Calluses
- A podiatrist or chiropodist may remove the corns and hard skin with a scalpal.
- Orthotic inserts can help correct poor foot biomechanics.
- Vasoline or petrolium jelly applied to the skin can help reduce friction and pressure over the area.
- Corn and callus plasters are avialable to help protect the areas and prevent friction.
