Experiencing some rough patches along your heel or toes? You could be dealing with calluses or corns! Luckily, both are quite common and there isn’t too much concern when it comes to either condition. But treating your corns or calluses properly can prevent any pain you may be experiencing or further complications. Follow our guide for getting rid of pesky corns and calluses to maintain healthy, comfortable feet!

What Are They, Exactly?

Corns and calluses are two separate skin issues, but they do have a lot in common. Both have similar symptoms and treatment options. Both conditions are the result of friction and they’re your body’s way of protecting the skin from this friction. When you see a corn, it usually will appear on or around your toes with a hard center and swollen skin surrounding it. They’re typically small and much deeper in your skin than calluses are. Corns can either be dry and hard or soft and mushy. Calluses occur around your heel due to ongoing friction.

Kicking Them to The Curb

In most cases, corns and calluses disappear once the friction stops. But if it doesn’t, there are some home remedies you can test out.

Consider a foot soak. Fill your bathtub to ankle level with lukewarm water and rest your feet in the water for 10 to 15 minutes. For added benefits, you can use Epsom salts or mild, scented soap. The skin should soften after your soak.
Gently file your calluses with a pumice stone or washcloth. Gently is the keyword here. This trick can help remove dead skin, but be sure to use this technique in the shower with water.
Use padding or orthotics to take the pressure off your corns and calluses. Also, be sure to wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes.

If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort because of your corns or calluses, contact your foot doctor as soon as possible. Leaving them untreated can lead to further complications. Those with diabetes should visit a podiatrist to treat their corns and calluses, even if they’re not experiencing any pain.

At Advanced Foot Care of NJ, LLC, Dr. Anant Joshi and his staff treat a range of conditions and are committed to providing results. To schedule an appointment, contact his office in Woodland Park, NJ, at 973-256-0002.