Dealing with Blisters, Calluses and Corns
At Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle, we know that friction and your feet are not a good combination. Three common podiatric problems—blisters, calluses, and corns—result from friction and pressure to a specific area on your foot. Although they may have a common source, each of these conditions is a bit different. Read below for what causes them and how to treat them.
Blisters
Soaring summer temperatures mean sweatier feet. Sweat increases friction, making it easier for your shoes to rub against your skin and cause a blister. A blister is a sack of clear fluid that forms over a damaged area to allow new skin to grow in a sterile environment. Sometimes you can prevent a blister from forming by covering an area that starts to feel irritated with a piece of moleskin or a bandage. Don’t pop a blister! This opens the pathway to infection. If it bursts on its own, wash gently with soap and water, apply an antibiotic ointment and a bandage until the area heals. Alternate your footwear to avoid the same area being rubbed repeatedly and avoid shoes with toe “thongs” as these increase friction between the toes.
Calluses
A callus will appear as a thick, hard patch of skin. Although a callus is on the surface, it responds to pressure on the bone-deep inside your foot. That’s why they often appear on weight-bearing parts of your feet, like the sole or heel. Over time, if left untreated, the callus may grow and eventually cause pain from your shoes. You can soak calluses and then try to smooth them with a pumice stone gently. However, it’s best to find the source of the pressure and correct it.
Corns
Corns are usually smaller than calluses and have a hard center. They are the result of repeated friction and pressure from footwear or toes rubbing on one another. Often patients with toe deformities such as bunions or claw toes will develop corns as well.
Although blisters usually are temporary and will go away on their own, if you have a corn or callus you should make an appointment with our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales to determine the underlying cause of your condition and get the appropriate treatment. Contact our Hudson office (727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799) today.