Corns and calluses are hard thickened layers of skin that develop because the skin is trying to protect the soft tissue overlying prominent areas of bone from surrounding pressure and friction.
Calluses and corns typically develop on the toes, feet, fingers, and hands. Both conditions are often confused with one another and can be distinguished by their location.
Corns generally occur at pressure points, typically on the top or side of toes, and can be very thickened and painful whereas calluses form on the weight-bearing part of feet and they are flatter, wider, and less painful.
Some calluses on the feet develop simply because of one’s anatomy or a foot deformity. However, in most cases, calluses are caused by ill-fitting shoes.
High-heeled shoes are the worst offender as they place a tremendous amount of pressure on the toes and feet making women four times more likely than men to suffer from corns and calluses. Other risk factors include wearing shoes or sandals without socks due to rubbing and friction.
At Gotham Footcare, our main focus is to reduce and prevent the formation of calluses by alleviating the friction and pressure that’s causing them to form in the first place.
This involves taking a detailed patient history which will include discussing what type of daily and recreational activities you perform and the types of shoes that you wear while performing such activities. Our NYC foot callus removal experts will educate you on the pros and cons of different shoe gear for different activities. Wearing the appropriate shoe will significantly reduce unnecessary pressure in areas of high risk.
At Gotham Footcare, our doctors make custom-molded orthotics specifically designed to support the unique structure of your feet. Our custom orthotics will match the precise way that you walk and run, cushioning, and support your feet with each step. By controlling the way you move and the way in which your foot strikes the ground, our orthotics will help reduce and eliminate faulty biomechanical forces that cause painful calluses to develop.
Foot calluses can often be managed effectively with simple treatments. Here are some common methods for foot callus treatments Manhattan patients may try:
Proper Footwear
Wear well-fitting shoes with plenty of room for your toes and good arch support. Avoid shoes with narrow toe boxes or high heels, as they can increase pressure on the feet and contribute to callus formation.
Orthotic Devices
Consider using orthotic inserts or custom-made shoe inserts to correct foot mechanics and redistribute pressure on the feet. This can be particularly helpful for individuals with foot abnormalities or conditions like flat feet or high arches.
Medical Treatments
In some cases, one of our NYC podiatrists may recommend more aggressive treatments for stubborn or painful calluses. This can include trimming the callus with a scalpel (debridement), applying keratolytic agents to soften the skin, or using special padding or orthotic devices.
Padding
Use cushioning pads or insoles to provide extra protection to areas of the feet that are prone to calluses. This can help reduce friction and pressure, especially if you have foot deformities or wear tight shoes.
Address Underlying Issues
If your foot calluses are caused by underlying foot problems, such as bunions, hammertoes, or gait abnormalities, it's important to address these issues to prevent recurrence of the calluses. This may involve wearing corrective devices, undergoing physical therapy, or, in severe cases, surgical intervention.
Soaking and Exfoliation
Soak your feet in warm, soapy water for about 10-15 minutes to soften the callused skin. Then, gently rub the area with a pumice stone, foot file, or exfoliating scrub to remove the thickened skin. Be careful not to overdo it, as excessive rubbing can cause irritation or injury.
It's essential to be gentle when treating foot calluses and avoid cutting or shaving them at home, as this can increase the risk of infection or injury. If you have diabetes, poor circulation, or other medical conditions that affect your feet, it's best to consult a healthcare professional before attempting any self-care measures.
At Gotham Footcare in NYC, we strive at recognizing your individual needs and desired outcomes while formulating an effective and personalized treatment plan with the highest quality care available.
What sets Gotham Footcare apart from other podiatry offices is our dedication to providing you with the education you need to make well-informed decisions regarding your care. Regardless of what your foot and ankle trouble may be, at Gotham Footcare our team will work tirelessly to help you feel better. At Gotham Footcare, we help you put your best foot forward.
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