CORNS & CALLUSES
Calluses
Callus is the build-up of dead skin cells that harden and thicken over an area of the foot. This callus formation is the body's defense mechanism to protect the foot against excessive pressure and friction. Calluses are normally found on the ball-of-the-foot, the inside of the big toe and the heel.
Some calluses have a deep core. This particular type of callus can be especially painful to pressure. This condition is often referred to as porokeratosis
Cause
Calluses develop because of excessive pressure at a specific area of the foot, usually a bony prominence. Some common causes of callus formation are high-heeled dress shoes, shoes that are too small, obesity, abnormalities in the gait cycle (walking motion), flat feet, high arched feet, bony prominences and the loss of the fat pad on the bottom of the foot.
Treatment and Prevention
Many people try to alleviate the pain caused by calluses by cutting or trimming them with a razor blade or knife. This is not the way to properly treat calluses. This is very dangerous and can worsen the condition and result in unnecessary injuries. Diabetics should never try this type of treatment.
To relieve the excessive pressure that leads to callus formation, weight should be redistributed equally with the use of an orthotic. An effective orthotic transfers pressure away from the "hot spots" or high pressured areas to allow the callus to heal. The orthotic should be made with materials that absorb shock and shear (friction) forces. Women should also steer away from wearing high-heeled shoes.
CornsCorns also develop from an accumulation of dead skin cells on the foot, forming thick, hardened areas. They may contain a cone-shaped core with a point that can press on a nerve below, causing pain. Corns are a very common ailment that usually form on the tops, sides and tips of the toes. Corns can become inflamed due to constant friction and pressure from shoes. Corns that form between the toes are often referred to as soft corns. CauseSome of the common causes of corn development are tight fitting shoes, high heeled shoes, tight fitting stockings and socks, deformed toes or the foot sliding forward in a shoe that fits too loosely. Soft corns result from bony prominences and are located between the toes. They become soft due to perspiration in the forefoot area. Some complications that can arise from corns include bursitis and the development of an ulcer. Treatment and PreventionThere are very simple ways to prevent and treat the corns. You should wear properly fitted footwear with extra room in the toe box (toe area). Avoid shoes that are too tight or too loose. Use an orthotic or shoe insert made with materials that will absorb shock and shear forces. Also avoid tight socks and stockings to provide a healthier environment for the foot. Try to steer away from corn removing solutions and medicated pads. These solutions can sometimes increase irritation and discomfort. Diabetics and all other individuals with poor circulation should never use any chemical agents to remove corns. Sometimes padding is beneficial to relieve pain and pressure of corns or calluses. Corns and calluses can be removed to give comfort and pain relief. If these treatments are not successful, surgery may be necessary to relieve the pain and pressure. If you are experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, call today for an appointment. |