Corns and Callosities: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Corns and callosities are painful and unsightly skin conditions that occur when the skin on your feet or hands thickens and hardens due to constant pressure or friction. They are more common in individuals who wear tight or ill-fitting shoes, have foot deformities, or engage in activities that put excessive pressure on the feet.
- Causes of Corns and Callosities: Corns and callosities are caused by repeated pressure or friction on the skin. Some common causes include:
- Wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes
- High heels or shoes with pointed toes
- Foot deformities such as bunions or hammertoes
- Walking or running for extended periods
- Playing musical instruments such as the guitar or piano
- Symptoms: Corns and callosities can be identified by their appearance. Corns are small, round, and have a hard center with a raised border. Callosities are larger, flatter, and have a more diffuse border. They can be yellow, gray, or brown in color. Symptoms may include:
- Pain or tenderness when pressure is applied to the affected area
- Thickened or rough skin
- A raised bump or hardened area on the skin
- Flaky or dry skin
- Treatment: There are several ways to treat corns and callosities:
- Wearing comfortable shoes that fit properly
- Using cushioned insoles or pads to reduce pressure on the affected area
- Soaking your feet in warm water to soften the skin before gently filing it down with a pumice stone
- Applying moisturizer to keep the skin soft and supple
- Using over-the-counter treatments such as salicylic acid to dissolve the hardened skin
- In severe cases, a doctor may need to remove the corn or callus with a scalpel or prescribe medication.
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to corns or callosities, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. With proper care and treatment, you can get relief from the pain and prevent further complications.
Remember, prevention is the best cure. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes that fit well and avoid