Too much friction on the feet causes the skin to naturally harden for protection. This could be from uneven weight distribution, ill-fitting shoes, or improper support. These hard and painful corns or calluses can affect your daily life and may require the assistance of a podiatrist to remove them. Here is a brief guide to each issue and the different forms of treatment.

Calluses

Calluses are wide areas of dead skin on the underside of the foot characterized by a pale, yellowish color. They are usually caused by an uneven distribution of weight. If it’s a mild case, the podiatrist may recommend using a pumice stone after a hot shower to shave away the areas of dead skin. They may also advise using custom orthotics to prevent future calluses from forming.

Corns 

Corns are a type of callus, but tend to form on or near a bony area of the foot such as on the knuckles or in between the toes. They usually form because of improperly fitting shoes. They are defined as small bumps or circles with a distinctly hard center surrounded by inflamed skin. If the corn is large and difficult to remove on your own, the podiatrist may need to use a professional blade to file down the dead skin. They may also administer a cortisone injection to reduce pain around the site.

Make strides toward healthier feet today with the help from St. Peters Foot & Ankle: Samual T. Wood-DPM, LLC in Saint Peters and Florissant, MO. This board-certified podiatrist has spent the past 20 years handling a variety of foot problems, including plantar fasciitis, ingrown toenails, corns, and calluses. His friendly staff guides patients through the diagnosis and treatment process to help them recover quickly. Visit the website for a full list of services. Call (636) 720-0190 to schedule an appointment today.