Corn and calluses form on the skin due to continuous pressure or friction applied on the skin. They are thick and hard parts of the skin and a natural mechanism to protect the underlying sensitive skin. Calluses develop when continuous friction is applied to a particular part of the body, foot, for example, while the development of corns is attributed to bone pressure on the skin. They are conical or round in shape and show bumpy appearance on the skin. Corns and calluses generally occur on toes, toenail, either side of the foot and bottom of the foot. Morphologically, corns can be either hard or soft. The development of corn on the bottom of the foot interferes with the normal walking activity.
- Causes of corn development:
A person can develop foot corn if he wears tight shoes. Moreover, during a long walk, pressure due to body weight is continuously borne by the feet. This constant friction can lead to the development of corn on the bottom of the feet. Even arthritis can lead to corn development. Typically, most of the corn and calluses disappear when the pressure or friction responsible for causing them stops.
Treatment of corn and calluses
The following tips are recommended for foot corn treatment. - Warm water
The corn or callus can be soaked in warm water for 5-10 minutes to soften the skin. - Wear proper shoes
A common reason for corn development is wearing shoes which are not of right size and shape. Do not buy too tight shoes to avoid excess pressure or friction. Keep your feet dry and wear soft cotton socks with properly fitted shoes. Avoid wearing socks made up of synthetic fibers to avoid any irritation to the skin. - Apply moisturizing cream
It softens the skin around the corn and helps in cases where cracks have been developed in the corn. Generally, a moisturizing cream can be applied overnight and covered with a sock. Next morning, rub off the corn/callus gently using a soft cloth. Alternatively, a pumice stone can be used prior to applying a cream to remove the dead skin. Use the creams only after the prescription from a doctor. - Surgery
A surgical method can be used for foot corn treatment. However, it does not guarantee that it won`t come back. - Antibiotics
Antibiotics are prescribed for foot corn treatment in cases where an infection has been developed in corn. However, pus must be drained via a small incision. - Natural remedies
Natural remedies must be performed only after consulting an expert or a doctor. A few commonly used natural remedies for foot corn treatment are: - Castor oil and apple cider vinegar
A cup of apple cider vinegar in hot water can be used to soak the corn. After a 15 minute soaking, the corn gets softened, and castor oil can be applied. A ten-day treatment may remove the corn. - Lemon
Place a lemon slice over the corn overnight and secure with a bandage. - Onion
A white onion slice soaked in white vinegar can be applied on the corn overnight using a bandage. It helps in softening of the corn. - Epsom salts
Soak your feet in Epsom salt water and rest for 15 minutes. This will soften the corn. This will help in removing the dead skin from the top of the corn. Use a pumice stone to gently remove the corn layers. Repeat this exercise for several days. - Turmeric
Prepare a mixture of turmeric, honey and apply it on corn. After air drying, rinse with water. This can be repeated twice a day for 2-3 days for visible results. This is a very effective and natural foot corn treatment due to antimicrobial and healing properties of turmeric and soothing effects of honey. - Baking soda
A mix of baking soda, water, and lime juice can be applied over corn overnight. The process can be repeated for 5-7 days for good results. This mixture will remove the dead skin and prevent any infection. - Turpentine oil
It increases the blood circulation and reduces irritation and softens the skin. - Coconut oil
It is applied over corn to soften the skin owing to excellent moisturizing properties. - Bread
A bread piece soaked in vinegar can be applied over a corn and left overnight. Vinegar will soften the skin which can be easily rubbed off the next morning. This can be repeated for 1-2 nights.
Foot corn and calluses appear due to excessive pressure or friction applied over the skin for a longer period of time. The best prevention method is to wear proper size shoes and to take rest in between walking. Several remedies for foot corn treatment, both allopathic and natural, require consultation with an expert before use.
