Read - calluses

Calluses
 and corns

Calluses and corns are areas of thick, hardened, dead skin that form to protect the skin and body structure under the skin from pressure, friction, and injury. Calluses and corns become a problem when they grow large enough to cause pain.

Calluses generally form on the hands or feet, although they may form wherever there is pressure on the skin, such as on the knees or elbows. Calluses on the hands and feet of an active person are normal. They may appear grayish or yellowish, be less sensitive to the touch than surrounding skin, and feel bumpy. Calluses on the feet, can be painful because of having to step or walk on them all the time.

Corns are usually found on or between toes. They have an inner core that can be soft or hard. A soft corn looks like an open sore.

What type of treatment is recommended for calluses?
Calluses are often caused by pressure from footwear. Home treatment, such as wearing footwear that fits properly, may help minimize or eliminate the problem. A helpful calluses treatment would be soaking calluses in warm soapy water for ten minutes, and then rubbing it with a pumice stone. The stone has rough surface and can be used to rub off dead skin. Another helpful calluses treatment would be the use of an orthotic. To minimize excess pressure that leads to calluses, weight should be redistributed equally, and an orthotic can help to achieve this. Some people try to take care of calluses by trimming or cutting around the sore. This is not a way to properly treat foot calluses. When dealing with foot calluses, surgery should be the last resort.

To keep your feet blister calluses and corn free, choose your shoes wisely! Another preventative to avoid blister calluses and corns would be to interchange your shoes. This way your feet get a break and will not always be rubbed in the same places.

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