We asked podiatrist Mike O’Neill, from the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists, what he would want to know about corns and calluses.
How should I take care of my feet?
Wash your feet regularly and use a foot lotion or moisturiser to stop the skin from drying out.
Can I treat a corn or callus at home?
You can control a small amount of hard skin by gently rubbing with a foot file when you are in the bath, and by using a moisturising cream daily. If this doesn’t work, seek advice from a registered chiropodist or pharmacist. If you're diabetic or have circulation problems, don’t try to treat corns or calluses yourself. Seek professional medical advice.
Is it OK to use a pumice stone or chiropody sponge?
Foot files are better. Pumice stones and sponges can retain old skin and germs and aren’t very hygienic. Pumice stones, in particular, are often kept on the edge of the bath where they never get a chance to dry out and they can retain old skin and bacteria in their rough surface.
Can’t I get something from the chemist to treat a corn?
Over-the-counter treatments, such as corn plasters, don’t treat the main problem. If they are used in the wrong way, they can damage the healthy skin that surrounds the corn. Don’t attempt to cut away or scrape a callus. If you accidentally cut yourself, the humid environment of socks and shoes makes infection more likely.
What should I look for when I buy shoes?
Go shoe shopping late in the afternoon. Feet swell throughout the day and will be at their largest at this time. Look for shoes that fit well and have room in the toe. If you can wiggle your toes and they aren’t squeezed together, there shouldn’t be any friction.
Can I catch corns or calluses from someone else?
Corns and calluses are not caused by a virus and cannot be passed from person to person.
Can you get different types of corn?
There are five different types of corns. The two most common are:
- Hard corns, which are normally found on the tops and ends of the toes and under the ball of the foot joints.
- Soft corns, which retain moisture and are normally found between the toes.
The other types are:
- Seed corns. These are tiny, painless corns that tend to occur either on their own or in clusters on the bottom of the foot.
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Vascular corns. These bleed profusely if they're cut and can be very painful.
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Fibrous corns. These arise from corns that have been present for a long time. They appear to be more firmly attached to the deeper tissues than any other corn. They may also be painful.
