Corns and calluses develop when normal skin activity is over-stimulated resulting in a thickening layer of skin. This over-stimulation can result from congenital, hormonal, occupational & infective factors. A callous is a diffuse area of thickened skin, were as a corn is an area of a callous that have become moulded into a nucleus.
Corns are commonly found on the balls of the feet, and on the tops and in between the toes. They can be very sore if left untreated so it is best to deal with them as early as possible.
Causes:
Corns and calluses are quite common and may be the result of the way a person walks or ill-fitting shoes. Elderly people are more susceptible due to loss of the skin's protective fatty tissue, but people with certain skin types can also suffer from this condition.
Prevention & Treatment:
It is important to wear appropriate footwear, i.e. supportive shoes with wide toes and low heels.
A pumice stone is a good way to rid of hard skin on the foot in addition to a daily moisturising routine to soften skin and help it retain elasticity, especially in the elder. Metatarsal padding for the ball of the foot also helps the foot to manage daily stress and friction.
If you are experiencing a painful sensation where you feel like you are walking on stones, consult a Chiropodist/Podiatrist who will advise you on how to treat the problem. A Chiropodist/Podiatrist will treat the problem by removing hard skin, applying a metatarsal pad to the ball of the foot or fitting an orthotic (corrective insole) to assist the foot in redistributing pressure.
- Wear wide toed, low-heeled shoes.
- Use a pumice stone.
- Moisturise the foot daily.
- Use padding for the ball of the foot.
- See Podiatrist/Chiropodist for advice.
