Corns & Callous

Corns & Callous
This a thickening of the surface layer of the skin in response to repetitive trauma or pressure.
Corns usually form on the toes, where the bone is prominent and presses the skin against the shoe, ground, or other bones.
As corns become inflamed, there is pain and sometimes swelling and redness. Common places where corns form are: The top surface of the toe, at the tip of the toe, and between the toes.

Causes
• Tight-fitting shoes
• Deformed and crooked toes
• Tight socks and stockings
• Seam or stitch inside the shoe which rubs against the toe
• Sometimes shoes which are too loose, can cause the foot to slide forward with each step causing callous
• Prolonged walking on a downward slope
What you can do
• Avoid shoes which are to tight or too loose
• Buy shoes with an extra depth toe box (the part of the shoe over the toes)
• Do not apply socks or stockings tightly around the toes
• Use a pumice stone or other abrasive to reduce the thickness of the corn
• Apply non-medicated pads around the corn to relieve pressure
What we may do
• Carefully debride (pare down) the corn and any deep seated core it may have. It should be stressed that this provides only temporary relief, if the pressure continues after treatment.
• Apply various pads and devices to the toes to relieve pressure.
• Recommend appropriate shoes.
• Surgically straighten crooked or deformed toes, or remove bony prominences.