Here are a few suggestions for the treatment of corns and calluses:
- Never us salicylic acid based products, especially if you suffer from diabetes or a circulatory problem. These products will burn healthy skin.
- Do not treat or cut your own corns and callus due the possibility of a severe infection.
- Use gel or foam pads/cushions to protect your corns and calluses and consider custom-made orthotics/orthoses to maintain the toes and feet in a more stable and comfortable position.
- Apply Cutibase cream (www.cutimed.ca) on your feet to ensure softness.
Choose comfortable shoes:
- Loose fitting shoes with round and deep toe-boxes will allow more rooms for toe movement.
- Thick and cushioned insoles and outer soles will allow relief of pressure from calluses.
Choose well-fitted socks with a mix of cotton and polyester to combat humidity and prevent friction.
For persistent corns and calluses, here are others available treatments:
- The podiatrist may debride your callus or remove your corn with the aid of a scalpel. Attempting to do this own your own may lead to a serious infection.
- Through a change in your foot position, custom-made orthotics/orthoses may prevent painful corns and calluses.
- Any antibiotics cream (polysporin) may be applied to painful corns and calluses to prevent infection.
- Surgery may be an option.
When should you consult a podiatrist?
- If you corn or callus is associated with intense pain, redness or inflammation.
- If you suffer from diabetes or any circulatory/vascular disorder.