Before you pull your favorite pair of sandals out of the closet this spring, Eastern CT Foot Specialists PC wants to remind you that now is the perfect time to treat corns and calluses you may have developed over the winter. We believe that the condition of your feet reflects the condition of your overall health and are committed to helping patients resolve foot-related issues, from everyday aches and pains to painful ingrown toenails. 

In most cases, corns and calluses are a cosmetic issue, but treating and removing them is important if they contribute to foot pain. This is especially true for patients who already see a podiatrist for specialized diabetic foot care. If you are experiencing corns and calluses, these tips from Eastern CT Foot Specialists PC can help your feet look and feel their best.

Ill-fitting shoes are the most common cause of corns and calluses. Shoes that are too loose can cause your feet to rub and slide while shoes that are too tight can compress your foot. In both of these cases, corns and calluses develop as your skin thickens to protect itself against pressure and friction. Corns are typically small and round, with a hard center. They are most often found on the parts of your feet that don’t bear your weight, especially on the tops and sides of your toes. Calluses tend to form on the soles of feet and are usually larger than corns. While corns may be painful when pressed, corns and calluses are typically not painful.

Under most circumstances, both corns and calluses can be treated at home with a regimen of over-the-counter protective pads; soaking your feet in warm, soapy water; gently buffing away the affected skin with a pumice stone, and applying moisturizer to your feet. Patients who are experiencing pain due to their corns and calluses, or are being treated for diabetes and other conditions that affect blood flow are advised to speak with their podiatrist regarding more intensive treatment. Your doctor may need to pare down the affected skin with professional tools or prescribe a salicylic acid based corn removal medication and topical antibiotic ointment.

Patients of all ages can benefit from visiting a podiatrist, whether you’re recovering from a sports injury or managing diabetes. To learn more about their many services, visit Eastern CT Foot Specialists PC online. When you’re ready to make an appointment, call (860) 887-3538, and get ready for personalized expert care that will leave your feet feeling great.