Callus is a thickening and hardening of skin that forms in response to pressure and friction
It is the body’s defence mechanism to protecting the structures under the skin
The causes of callus include: - ground pressure - footwear pressure - poor foot posture leading to overload and increased pressure - dry skin
Callus is usually found on the ball of the foot, around the heel and/or the side of the big toe
A small build-up of callus is generally not painful but if it gets thick and puts pressure on the tissues underneath the skin then it can cause discomfort
Older people are more prone to callus formation as the fat pads that protect bony areas of the foot break down with age
Treatment by a Podiatrist:
Removal of the callus using podiatric tools
This is generally a painless procedure as it is the removal of dead skin
Advice regarding appropriate fitting footwear
Insoles or orthotics that may address underlying biomechanics issues that are leading to pressure
Recommendations of appropriate moisturising creams
Corns
What is a Corn?
Like callus, a corn is a thickening and hardening of skin that forms in response to pressure and friction
Where it differs to callus is that a corn forms a hardened cone-shaped core from pressure that is very localised. This core can feel as hard as a rock
It is the body’s defence mechanism to protecting the structures under the skin
A corn is usually on a bony prominence that has pressure with either the ground, footwear or another bony prominence of the foot
Often corns are seen on the tops of toes (especially if they are clawed or hammer toes), under the ball of the foot and even between the toes
Corns can be very painful as they are often deep into the skin
A corn in a high pressure area can develop into a wound and this can cause concerns, especially if you are a diabetic
Treatment by a Podiatrist:
Removal of the corn using podiatric tools
Address the underlying cause of the pressure to help try and prevent the corn from returning. If pressure is not removed then they will come back
Recommending appropriate silicone protectors, toe separators or toe props to help reduce pressure from the area
Advice regarding appropriate fitting footwear to eliminate pressure
Insoles or orthotics that may address underlying biomechanical issues that are leading to pressure
Recommendations of appropriate moisturising creams
DO NOT use medicated corn pads – they often contain an acid. This could lead to wounds, ulcers and infection of the feet
Cracked Heels
What are Cracked Heels?
Cracks or fissure in the skin of the heel of the foot
When the heels are dry the skin cracks with ground reaction forces
They can become deep and this can lead to pain and possible infection
Causes include: - Wearing thongs or backless shoes in summer - Walking barefoot on hard floors - Circulation problems leading to skin breakdown - Fungal skin infections, eczema, psoriasis
Treatment by a Podiatrist:
Removal of the dry skin using podiatric tools to assist repair of the cracks
Advice for wound management if necessary
Recommendations of appropriate moisturising creams to help rehydrate the skin
