How to Prevent Corns and Calluses
Corns and calluses are thickened areas of skin that result from pressure. If this pressure continues, the skin get thicker and can become painful or unsightly. This is when we seek treatment. However, in many cases corns and calluses can be prevented. Simply follow these steps:
Things You'll Need
- An Emollient (moisturizer)
- A Pumice stone or foot file/rasp
- A Podiatrist
Instructions
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1
Change your footwear. This may be all that is necessary, since the most common cause of a corn or callus is poorly fitting shoes. A shoe may be too tight or too loose and rub across the toes. If the shoe is a slip on style, then the toes will claw to hold the shoe on--making the toes more prone to pressure. A backless shoe does not support the foot and excessive friction may cause calluses to form at the back of the heel. So a good fitting shoe with a lace or strap and supportive heel is the first step in preventing calluses and corns from forming. In the warmer weather you may be able to wear an open toe shoe to prevent any direct pressure on the toes.
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2
Apply an emollient or moisturizer to your feet after bathing or showering. It is best to do this when you are sitting down so that the it can soak into the skin. If your skin is very dry then you may be more prone to calluses and corns.
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Dry your feet thoroughly paying particular attention between your toes. Avoid powders as they will get trapped between your toes and make the matter worse. An open toe shoe will help to keep your feet cool prevent excessive sweating. If your feet sweat a great deal, the sweat may collect between your toes and form a soft corn which can be very painful.
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Rub any dry areas of dry skin with a pumice stone or foot file. Never attempt to cut the skin away.
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Visit your podiatrist If you continue to get corns and calluses. They will be able to tell you the cause of the problem along with removing the corn or callus. In some cases the cause may be due to a mechanical or structural problem with your foot. For example, corns often form on the toes as a result of a bunion.
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Tips & Warnings
If you have diabetes, poor circulation, arthritis, a poor immune system or you cannot reach or see your feet, always seek medical attention before attempting to treat a corn or callus yourself.
Never use chemical corn pads or ointments. These may break down the skin around the corn or callus making the area very painful and prone to infection.
