Corns & Calluses | Causes | Prevention | Treatment
Expert Podiatry Solutions
At Callen Olive Podiatry Clinic, we have invested in cutting-edge podiatry technology to address a range of foot concerns, including toenail trauma, corns, calluses, blisters, and cracked heels. Our expert team of podiatrists offers valuable advice and tailored treatments to ensure optimal foot health.
Toenail Problems:
Issues with toenails can affect individuals of all ages, becoming more prevalent as one ages. Causes of toenail problems include trauma, ill-fitting shoes, poor circulation, poor nerve supply, and infections.
Fungal Nail Infections:
These infections typically start beneath the nail, causing discoloration (brown, white, or yellow), thickening, loosening, or separation of the nail, and a crumbling appearance.
Toenail Trauma:
Whether chronic or resulting from an acute injury, toenail trauma can affect the nail's growth centre or matrix, leading to blood and bruising beneath the toenail, thickening, or even loss of the toenail.
Changes in toenails can be indicative of underlying medical conditions. Seeking professional advice upon noticing any abnormality is crucial for timely intervention.
Damaged Toenails:
Toenail trauma can result in missing or damaged nails, attributed to various factors such as injury, fungal infections, or autoimmune diseases. While some cases may witness natural nail regrowth, others may require medical treatment for comprehensive care.
Blisters:
Fluid-filled pockets on the skin, blisters result from rubbing or pressure, posing pain and an increased risk of infection if not treated properly. Properly fitted shoes, well-chosen socks, and maintaining dry feet are essential in preventing blisters.
Cracked Heels / fissures:
Caused by dry skin, aging, and excessive pressure on the feet, cracked heels (also known as fissures) can be painful and raise the risk of infection. Treatment involves moisturizing creams, proper footwear, and using a foot file to gently remove dead skin. Severe cases may necessitate medical intervention.
Corns and Calluses:
These are layers of thickened and hardened skin developed in response to friction, pressure, and wear. While not usually severe, they can impact walking comfort and body weight distribution, potentially leading to back, knee, or hip pain in the long run.
Difference Between Corns and Calluses:
- Calluses: Flat patches of hard, thickened skin, often yellowish, and larger than corns. Usually found where there's repeated pressure and friction, with little sensitivity.
- Corns: Smaller, round-shaped patches of thickened skin with a hard center, surrounded by inflamed skin. Typically occur in areas experiencing pressure, causing discomfort and pain.
Symptoms of Corns and Calluses:
- Pain or discomfort under pressure
- Dense patches of skin buildup in high-pressure areas
- Tenderness or burning around raised portions of skin
- Dry, flaky skin outside the surface of a callus
If left untreated, prolonged irritation can lead to pain, discoloration, bleeding, wounds, ulcers, and infections. Common causes include misalignment in the foot (deformity), biomechanical issues, ill-fitting shoes, and lack of socks.
Our expert podiatrists offer comprehensive solutions to alleviate existing concerns and prevent recurrence. Seeking professional advice ensures effective management and long-term foot health.
