How to Treat a corn or callus

A corn or callus is an area of thickened dead skin cells, typically on the ball of the foot, which is caused by too much pressure in combination with some kind of friction. These conditions often are caused by wearing shoes too tightly. Although a corn or callus is a natural defense for the body to protect itself, either can become rather painful.

Instructions

1. Wash your feet every day. Proper foot hygiene is essential for healthy feet. Soak your feet in warm water for at least 10 minutes to keep the skin from getting hard. Towel dry and exfoliate using a pumice stone. Apply a moisturizing lotion to the soles of the feet to help soften hard, dry skin.

2. Wear comfortable shoes. You should never wear footwear that is too tight. Wear shoes designed with a wide toe box and low heel. You should be able to wiggle all your toes inside the shoe. Choosing shoes with thick soles will put less pressure on your feet when walking on hard surfaces. Properly fitted shoes also stop bony areas of the foot from rubbing against shoes.

3. Wear protective padding to prevent pressure and friction on the foot. Your doctor may even prescribe specially made padded shoe inserts to help prevent corns or calluses from recurring.

4. Talk to your doctor, as it may be necessary to have the callus surgically removed. Never try to remove a callus yourself. Corns, which typically develop on the top and sides of the toes, can be trimmed by a podiatrist during an office visit. Self-treatment using over-the-counter or home remedies, which contain acids or other chemicals, is NOT recommended.

Tips & Warnings

• Because people with diabetes or other medical conditions associated with poor circulation to the feet are more likely than others to have foot problems, early detection and treatment can prevent serious complications. Diabetics, in particular, are at risk for skin ulceration following a callus.

• The width of your foot can increase with age. Always have your feet measured before purchasing new shoes.