Corns & Calluses
Corns and calluses represent an area of thick, hard skin that develops of the surface of your skin. They are your body’s attempt to protect itself from pressure and friction.
Corns/calluses in otherwise healthy individuals will most likely resolve when the underlying pressure is resolved. A callus that develops in a patient with diabetes should be taken more seriously as complications such as ulcerations or infections may result.
Signs and Symptoms
Areas of thickened, hard skin
Pain with direct pressure
Feeling like a pebble is stuck in the foot
Yellow discoloration to area of skin
Dry skin
Pain with walking barefoot on hard surfaces
Diagnosis and Treatment
Calluses can mimic other skin conditions of the foot, such as a wart, therefore requires proper diagnosis and treatment from your podiatric physician. Treatment will often include debridement, or shaving, of the callus, using pads to remove pressure from the area, orthotics, and prescription creams to gently soften the callus.
A key with any individual is to avoid over the counter corn removers, liquids and pads. These contain acid and when incorrectly used may cause chemical burns to skin.