What are Corns and Calluses, 8 Ways to Prevent it

Corns and calluses are areas of thick, tough skin that develop as a result of repeated friction and pressure on the skin. They form when the skin tries to protect itself from further damage by producing more layers of skin cells. While both corns and calluses are similar in appearance, there are some differences between the two. We discuss about those, and the ways to prevent it.

Corns are small, round areas of thick skin that typically form on the toes and the tops and sides of the feet. They are usually smaller than calluses and have a hard center surrounded by a ring of thick skin. Corns can be painful when pressure is applied to them, and they can sometimes cause discomfort when wearing shoes.

Calluses, on the other hand, are larger and flatter areas of thick skin that form on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. They are not as painful as corns, but they can still cause discomfort, especially if they are located in areas that are subjected to repetitive pressure.

What causes corns and calluses?

Corns and calluses are caused by repeated friction and pressure on the skin. Some common causes of corns and calluses include:

1. Ill-fitting shoes:

   Wearing shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause friction and pressure on the feet, leading to the formation of corns and calluses.

2. Foot deformities:

   Foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, and high arches can put extra pressure on certain areas of the feet, leading to the formation of corns and calluses.

3. Repetitive activities:

   Engaging in activities that put repetitive pressure on certain areas of the feet, hands, or other parts of the body can lead to the formation of corns and calluses. This can include activities such as playing musical instruments, manual labor, and sports.

4. Age:

   As we age, our skin becomes less elastic and more prone to developing corns and calluses.

8 Ways to Prevent Corns and Calluses

To prevent corns and calluses from forming, it is important to take steps to reduce friction and pressure on the skin. Some tips to help prevent corns and calluses include:

1. Wear properly fitting shoes:

   It is important to wear shoes that fit properly to reduce friction and pressure on the feet. Shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause friction and pressure, leading to the formation of corns and calluses.

2. Use padding:

   Placing padding in areas of the shoes where there is a lot of friction can help reduce the pressure on the feet and prevent the formation of corns and calluses.

3. Keep your feet dry:

   Keeping your feet dry can help prevent the formation of corns and calluses by reducing friction and pressure on the skin.

4. Use corn and callus pads:

   Corn and callus pads can help reduce pressure and friction on the skin, helping to prevent the formation of corns and calluses.

5. Maintain good foot hygiene:

   Regularly washing and moisturizing your feet can help keep the skin soft and reduce the risk of developing corns and calluses.

6. Avoid going barefoot:

   Going barefoot, especially on hard surfaces, can increase the risk of developing corns and calluses. Wearing shoes or sandals can help protect your feet and prevent the formation of corns and calluses.

7. Stretch your feet:

   Regularly stretching your feet can help reduce the pressure and friction on the skin, helping to prevent the formation of corns and calluses.

8. Take breaks:

   If you engage in activities that put repetitive pressure on certain areas of the feet, hands, or other parts of the body, it is important to take breaks to reduce the pressure on the skin and prevent the formation of corns and calluses.

Treatment of Corns and Calluses

If you already have corns and calluses, there are several treatment options available to help alleviate the symptoms and prevent them from getting worse. Some common treatments include:

1. Pumice stone:

   Gently using a pumice stone to rub the affected area can help remove the thick, dead skin and reduce the pain and discomfort associated with corns and calluses.

2. Corn and callus pads:

   Corn and callus pads can be placed on the affected area to reduce pressure and friction, helping to alleviate the symptoms of corns and calluses.

3. Salicylic acid:

   Over-the-counter medicated creams and gels that contain salicylic acid can help break down the thick, dead skin associated with corns and calluses.

4. Moisturizers:

   Regularly moisturizing the skin can help keep it soft and reduce the risk of developing corns and calluses.

5. Consult a doctor:

   If you have severe or persistent corns and calluses, it is important to consult a doctor. They may recommend a custom orthotic or other treatments to alleviate the symptoms and prevent them from getting worse.

Corns and calluses are common conditions that result from repeated friction and pressure on the skin. To prevent corns and calluses from forming, it is important to take steps to reduce friction and pressure on the skin and maintain good foot hygiene. If you already have corns and calluses, there are several treatment options available to help alleviate the symptoms and prevent them from getting worse. If you have severe or persistent corns and calluses, it is important to consult a doctor for proper evaluation and treatment.