Corporate Health & Wellness Specialist – PrognoHealth
Corns and callouses
Corns and callouses are thick dead cells that develop either over or under the skin. They are usually a result of the body’s defense system to protect itself from excessive and repetitive friction from shoes, slippers, socks, or any other external factor. They may also develop due to an Improper walking motion. However, most are caused by Ill-fitting or hIgh4ee1ed shoes which put pressure on the toes.
You may have corn or callous If you have.
A thick, rough area of skin, hardened, raised bump with tenderness or pain under your skin. Corns are smaller than rAousft and have a hard center surrounded by Inflamed, skit. Callouses. rarely painful. They usually develop on the soles of your tees, especially under the heels, on the palms, or on the knees. If a corn or callus becomes very painful or Inflamed consult the doctor immediately.
Tips to treat and prevent corns and callouses.
1. Always wash your feet and moisturize them before going to bed to kill bacteria growth and keep fungal infections at bay.
2. If there is a thick, rough area on your skin, applying castor oil to soften it.
3. Soak your hands or feet in warm water daily to soften corns and callouses, which make it easier to remove the thickened skin.
4. Avoid wearing tight footwear and keep your nails short as they attract dirt and bacteria, thereby leading to fungal infections in the feet.
5. Make sure your shoes fit properly and comfortably. Consider wearing pads to protect sensitive areas from rubbing.
6. Avoid overuse of high heels or any shoes that put pressure on the balls of the feet.
7. Consult a doctor if the corns or calluses are painful, especially if you have a chronic condition such as diabetes.
8. If you have diabetes consult the doctor before sell-treating because even a minor injury
to the foot can lead to an infected open sore (ulcer).
9. You can buy corn caps to protect the area where corn or callous has developed. But be careful while using over-the-counter (non-prescription) liquid corn removers or corn caps. These contain salicylic acid, which can irritate healthy skin and lead to infection, especially in people with diabetes.
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