Callus Feet
We spend a lot of time on our feet. Whether walking, enjoying sports or shopping or just simply standing, our feet are what allow us to be mobile.
Feet are the base that keeps the body upright, so looking after them is crucial. All too often, we only take care of our feet when something goes wrong. As well as musculoskeletal problems, our feet can also be affected by issues such as corns and calluses. These are small lumps or patches of hard skin that appear on your feet. While they are not often serious, corns and calluses on the feet can be painful and uncomfortable.
If you suffer with lumps or patches of hard skin on your feet, fortunately there are things you can do to remove the problem and stop it from coming back. Here we will define calluses and corns and advise on how you can treat and avoid these irritating skin conditions.
What is the difference between a corn and a callus?
Corns and calluses both form when the skin tries to protect itself against friction or pressure, for example after wearing ill-fitting shoes.
While they are similar, there are visible differences between the two conditions. Calluses on the feet appear as larger patches of thick and rough skin. If the hard skin is in the form of small lumps, you may have a corn.
What can I do if I have calluses on the feet?
If you have checked your feet and found a callus meaning treatment is needed, there are simple methods you can do at home. Try rubbing the hard skin with a pumice stone or foot file. This will gently but effectively exfoliate away the hard patches. Removing dead skin on feet will relieve some of the pressure you have felt with every step.
You can prevent callused feet by making changes to your lifestyle and daily routine. For example, wear thick socks and wide, comfortable shoes that do not rub against your feet.
Using a hydrating moisturiser containing urea is also a good idea to prevent feet from drying out. The PodiMe Hydra20 moisturisers contain more than 20% urea to hydrate your skin and cure dryness. With the right treatment, looking after callused skin does not need to be messy. Our non-drip products come in a range of sizes and applications – including cream, balm and spray – to seamlessly fit into your skincare routine.
It also quickly sinks into the skin so you can spend less time moisturising and more time doing the things you love.
How do I know if I have a corn?
A foot corn is a hardened layer of skin caused by your foot rubbing against a surface such as your shoes. They often form if you have been standing or walking for long periods of time.
You may hear corns and warts talked about together, but they are not the same.
Corn vs wart: what is a corn and what is a wart?
Although corns can look like warts, they are different issues. Warts are caused by a virus and requires the body’s immune system to fight off the infection. Warts require medical attention, whereas corns are easily removed at home.
Corns can develop in several places on your feet. They usually appear at pressure points such as between your toes, below your toenail bed, and on the bottom or sides of your feet.
Experiencing the following symptoms can be a sign that you have a foot corn:
- Rough and yellowing patches of lumpy or bumpy skin
- Skin that is sensitive when touched
- Pain when wearing shoes
Treatment for foot corns is simple and something that does not require a trip to hospital.
As corns can form anywhere on the feet, it is important to have a range of treatments. The PodiMe toe caps are ideal for protecting the toes from further friction and pressure. For corns in between the toes, the Podi Toe Separators and Interdigital Wedge both act as a buffer between your toes to absorb shock and prevent compression. For extra flexibility, our soft fabric Toe Protectors stops friction from irritating your corn.
Approved by podiatrists, these PodiMe remedies alleviate discomfort and allow you to go about your day until you can remove the foot corn.
Remember that prevention is better than cure! Go forth and throw out those shoes that are a half size too small and invest in some comfortable insoles. You should also go and treat yourself to some trendy sandals, as by introducing urea creams and sprays into your skincare routine, you will be proud to show off your soft and supple feet.
We DO NOT recommend you remove a corn by using home remedies such as filing it or using acid. We strongly recommend seeing a Podiatrist to remove your corn