Foot Corns and Callus  

Corns and callus are a common problems seen by Podiatrists. A callus is a more diffuse thickening of the skin (more common on the toes, but can occur under the ball of the foot) whereas a corn is a thicker more focal area area (more common on the toes). A corn can occur under and be surrounded by callus.

A corn or callus are areas of thickened skin that occur in areas of pressure. They are actually a normal and natural way for the body to protect itself. In the foot, the skin will thicken up to protect itself when there are areas of high pressure. The problem occurs when the pressure continues, so the skin gets thicker. It eventually becomes painful and is treated as something foreign by the body.

Corns and callus are caused by one thing - TOO MUCH PRESSURE, usually in combination with some friction. There is no other way to get them - the pressure stimulates the skin to thicken to protect itself, but as the stimulation of the pressure continues, it becomes painful.

Remedies such as corn paint, cure or plasters will generally only treat the symptom of the corn and not the problem that causes it. The use of "corn plasters" in those who are at risk or have frail skin are very likely to cause an ulcer (a breakdown of the skin) which could become infected and it the circulation is poor, an amputation is a possibility. Cutting corns or calluses yourself (bathroom surgery) is not without its dangers, especially if you cut yourself. In the warm and moist environment of enclosed shoes, infection can easily develop into a serious wound.

Podiatric management of corns and callus include:

• a proper assessment to determine the cause of the corn and/or callus
• implementation of a management plan

The management plan is likely to take into account several options:

More information on foot corns and callus is available from ePodiatry. Croydon Total Footcare has full range of services available to treat foot corns and callus. Phone for an appointment.