Rothman Callus Physicians in Philadelphia Describe the Do’s and Don’ts of Callus Treatment

 

If you’re wondering what to do about painful calluses, you’re not alone. Corns and calluses are a major source of discomfort for many people, and it can be difficult to know exactly how to treat them. Callus physicians in Philadelphia are uniquely equipped to help you determine the best course of action for callus treatment, and doctors at

Rothman Orthopaedic Institute have created a list of 5 do’s and don’ts of callus treatment.

Calluses and Corns

Calluses are a natural part of the way your body protects itself from excess friction and blisters, and typically they don’t cause any major problems. Calluses are thickening of the skin where repeated friction has occurred, such as on the bottoms of feet. Unfortunately, sometimes these calluses can form in painful ways or places, leading to swelling, pain, cracking, and bleeding of the skin.

 

Calluses that form on the sides and tops of toes are called corns, and are often uncomfortable. These usually come from wearing shoes that are too tight, or that don’t properly fit the shape of your feet. Additionally, calluses on the sides of your feet, or those which are the result of hammertoes or bunions can make it difficult to walk.

Do’s and Don’ts of Callus Treatment

Rothman callus physicians in Philadelphia can make several recommendations for treatment of calluses and corns, and related pain. Since there is some confusing information on the internet, it is important to remember these do’s and don’ts of taking care of your calluses and corns.

1. DO make sure you are wearing properly fitting, supportive footwear.

Shoes that are too small, or that do not properly fit the shape of your foot can lead to calluses and corns from simple friction, as well as contributing to the development of hammertoe. Wearing properly fitting, supportive footwear is critical to preventing and treating calluses and corns.

2. DON’T use chemical medications that claim to “break down” calluses and corns.

 

While there are products on the market that claim to reduce corns and calluses using medications or chemicals, these compounds actually increase irritation, leading to more pain and a higher chance of infection

3. DO wear unmedicated corn pads to cushion corns and calluses.

Unmedicated donut shaped pads are available at your drugstore, and are excellent at protecting and cushioning corns as they heal. Similarly, you can use a bit of lamb’s wool to protect soft corns between toes from excess friction

 

4. DON’T ignore new corns and calluses if you suffer from diabetes.

Calluses and corns are typically not a serious problem, however, if you suffer from diabetes, you may be at higher risk for complications such as infection. If you have new corns or calluses that feel painful or inflamed, schedule an appointment with your doctor is as soon as possible.

5. DO seek help from a doctor if home treatment is unsuccessful.

If you have changed your footwear and treated your calluses or corns at home and they have not improved, it’s time to see a doctor. Callus physicians in Philadelphia can help you to figure out what is causing your ongoing callus problems, and talk to you about treatment options you may not have considered. This is especially true in cases where the callus or corn is caused by a hammertoe or bunion, both of which are underlying orthopaedic problems which require different treatment.

 

Looking for callus physicians in Philadelphia to help with an ongoing callus or corn problem? Call Rothman Orthopaedic Institute at 800-321-9999 to schedule an appointment.