Corns and Calluses
Corns and calluses are thick, hardened layers of skin that develop to protect against friction and pressure. They mostly develop on your feet and hands. They can be unsightly, but only require treatment if they cause you discomfort.
If you have diabetes or another condition that causes poor blood flow to your feet, you’re at greater risk of developing corns or calluses. Seek advice on proper care if you have such a condition.
Causes
Pressure and friction from repetitive actions cause corns and calluses to develop and grow.
Some sources of this pressure and friction include:
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes. Tight shoes and high heels can compress areas of your feet. When your footwear is too loose, your foot may repeatedly slide and rub against the shoe.
- Skipping socks. Wearing shoes and sandals without socks can cause friction on your feet.
- Playing instruments or using hand tools.
Symptoms
Contact your doctor if you notice:
- A thick, rough area of skin
- A hardened, raised bump
- Tenderness or pain under your skin
- Flaky, dry or waxy skin
Changes In Skin Appearance
Changes in the appearance of your skin, such as texture or color, are a result of poor circulation in the arteries and veins.
Pain On The Side Of The Foot
While pain may be felt on the inner side of the foot (medial foot pain), pain on the outer side (lateral foot pain) is more common.
Potential Treatments
If a corn or callus becomes very painful or inflamed, contact your doctor immediately. If you have diabetes or poor blood flow, call your doctor before self-treating a corn or callus, because even a minor injury to your foot can lead to an infected open sore (ulcer).
Custom Orthotics
Custom orthotics are specially crafted devices that are patterned based on your individual needs and designed to support and comfort your feet.
Regenerative Medicine Treatments
Regenerative medicine involves the delivery of growth factors to injured joints and tissues to promote the healing process.
