QUESTION: It may sound like a question that is too simple for you to dedicate time to, but let me assure you, a lot of your readers suffer from corns and calluses.
I am sure they would all like to know where they come from, what they are, and what to do about them? Would you please consider providing us with this important information?
ANSWER: You are right, it is an important health question that affects many people.
According to a recent survey, about 155 people out of every 1000 have some type of corn or callus, although fewer than 4 people of that number will require medical attention.
The causes of both these skin changes include friction and pressure, and the skin responds by becoming thicker and tougher as a protective mechanism.
The horny, outer layer of the skin called the "stratum corneum" becomes thicker in the area where there is an increased pressure or rubbing, from a tight shoe for example.
A corn has a hard core, a bit like an upside down pyramid, with the base at the surface of the skin, and the point pushing inward.
When this point presses against the nerve endings in the nearby tissue, a stabbing pain may the result.
Although a callus is formed from similar tissue, it has no hard central core which is how it differs from the corn.
The treatment of both begins by attacking the cause, preventing the friction and relieving the pressure on the area.
That means checking shoes, particularly athletic gear, for a correct fit.
It may require stretching the shoe a bit in areas where corns and calluses now exist.
Try using thick socks to absorb some of the pressure, or use corn and callus pads directly on the feet to reduce the pressure to the irritated areas.
Home treatment may consist of soaking the corn or callus in hot water, and then trimming back the surfaces with a sharp knife or razor, very carefully. Specially medicated plasters containing chemicals that can dissolve the tissue (keratolytics) are frequently very helpful.
When these simple home remedies fail to correct the problem, it is time to seek professional help, where more aggressive treatment techniques can be used to rid you of these annoying and painful conditions.
The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace the counsel and advice of your personal physician.
Promptly consulting your doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical problem.
