Are you experiencing some rough patches along your heel or toes? You’re likely dealing with calluses or corns! Luckily, both are very common, and they don’t pose too much of a health concern. But treating your corns or calluses properly can prevent any pain you may be experiencing, especially with summer approaching. Follow our guide for getting rid of pesky corns and calluses to maintain healthy, comfortable feet!

Corns and Calluses

Corns and calluses are two separate skin issues, but they have much in common. Both have similar symptoms and treatment options. Both conditions are the result of repeated friction. Your body creates corns and calluses to protect the skin from this friction.

When you see a corn, it usually will appear on or around your toes with a hard center and swollen skin surrounding it. They’re typically small and much deeper in your skin than calluses are. Corns can either be dry and hard or soft and mushy. Calluses occur around your heel due to ongoing friction.

Kiss Them Goodbye

Luckily, corns and calluses typically disappear once the friction stops. But if it doesn’t, there are some home remedies you can test out.

• Use padding or orthotics to take the pressure off of your corns and calluses. Also, be sure to wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes.
• Consider a foot soak. Fill your bathtub to ankle level with lukewarm water and rest your feet in the water for 10 to 15 minutes. The skin should soften after your soak. You can use Epsom salts or mild, scented soap for added benefits.
• Gently file your calluses with a pumice stone or washcloth. Gently is the keyword here. This trick can help remove dead skin, but use this technique in the shower with water.

If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort because of your corns or calluses, contact your foot doctor as soon as possible! Those with diabetes should visit a podiatrist to treat their corns and calluses, even if they’re not experiencing any pain.

Experiencing corns and calluses that won’t go away? Call our office today. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Donal M. Erickson, Dr. Keith Sherman, Dr. Anne-Louise Smith, Dr. Justin Muser, and the rest of the staff at Syracuse Podiatry in East Syracuse, New York, can help treat and care for your feet. Call us at 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online to get help today.