Geelong podiatrists – corns and callous

WHAT ARE CORNS AND CALLOUSES?

Corns and callous are a thickening of the surface layer of the skin in response to extra friction on pressure areas of your foot.  The development of corns and callous is the body’s defence system to protect tissue.  Hard patches of skin are called callouses and if the pressure is concentrated in a small area, a hard corn may develop.  “Soft” corns can also form between the toes, where the skin is moist and are caused by excessive friction and pressure.  “Soft” corns appear white and rubbery and are painful when wearing footwear.  If corns and callouses aren’t relieved, pressure may produce inflammation resulting in pain, swelling and redness.

WHAT CAUSES CORNS AND CALLOUSES?

• Tight or ill-fitting footwear.
• Bone deformities and abnormalities of the feet.
• Ageing causes a loss of fatty tissue, exposing bony areas.
• Occupations requiring long periods of standing on your feet.

WHAT ARE MY TREATMENT OPTIONS?

Our Geelong podiatrists at podiatry@belmont do not recommend the use of over-the-counter remedies, such as corn paint or plasters as they can create an acidic burn and will generally increase the symptoms.  Our Geelong podiatrists will examine your feet to assess the cause of your callous or corn.  We will gently remove the hard skin and centre of the corn and may provide soft padding or strapping to redistribute the pressure on your feet.  Our Geelong podiatrists will also assess your footwear and provide advice on appropriate well fitting, supportive footwear to reduce the excessive pressures on your feet providing long term relief.  Contact us now to make an appointment with a Geelong podiatrist for assessment and treatment of your corns and callouses.