Corns and calluses are unfortunately very common problems. Therefore, it is more than expected that we find a lot of misinformation and myths about solutions on the internet.
However, it is very important to understand the source of the problem in order to address it – this statement is true for any situation.
And that only a podiatrist can do for you.
In this article, you will better understand why calluses appear and, mainly, why it is not recommended to remove them at home or during a manicure. Come on!
What are corns and calluses?
Corns and calluses are a thickening of the skin on the feet, caused by the buildup of keratin, usually in response to excessive friction or pressure at the site.
The medical term for the thickening of the skin that forms calluses and calluses is hyperkeratosis. This process is the body's natural defense against friction or pressure, but it can lead to many problems.
Tight shoes, poor posture or bone deformities are some examples of possible causes for the appearance of corns and calluses. However, the problem can have very varied origins, and must be analyzed by an expert.
It is common for corns and calluses to cause pain and a lot of discomfort for the patient.
Calluses
They are thicker areas of skin, of varying sizes and shapes. They often appear where the feet are rubbed or pressured.
Corns
Corns are small, yellowish and cone-shaped. They can also become inflamed, causing a lot of pain. In some cases, it may also have a core.
Why shouldn't I treat corns and calluses at home?
Treatment of corns and corns at home is not recommended.
Removing corns and calluses is of little use if the source of the problem is not identified. That is, without proper assessment, the problem will re-appear.
But, mainly, trying to treat corns and calluses at home can lead to aggravation of the condition.
Under no circumstances, for example, should you try to remove corns and calluses with sharp objects. This can cause cuts or microcracks in the skin that, even when it doesn't bleed, act as a gateway for microorganisms that can cause infection.
It is also frequent that there is an inflammatory process in the calluses and calluses without the patient noticing it. This is because the accumulation of pus or the presence of clotted blood can be masked by skin keratinization.
Calicides, in turn, are medications that should never be applied without medical advice. Most of them are composed of an active acid that can damage the skin around the calluses and aggravate the condition when not applied correctly.
Even the thinning process, which consists of sanding the corns with pumice or a special sandpaper, should not be carried out at home or with manicures. When done improperly, it can also hurt the feet or aggravate the condition.
Can corns and calluses be prevented?
It is not recommended, under any circumstances, to treat corns and calluses at home.
But you can adopt some habits that will help prevent this and other problems and help keep your feet healthy.
It is interesting to note: as the causes of corns and calluses are very diverse, there is no way to prevent them with 100% certainty. These tips, however, will certainly bring many benefits to your feet:
- Wear comfortable shoes and quality materials, flexible and suitable for your feet;
- Spend some time barefoot, and don't wear the same shoe every day. Sanitize any shoes you're not wearing and leave them out in the sun.
- Use oil-based moisturizing foot creams daily. Do not pass the cream between your fingers. Your podiatrist can recommend the right product for you.
- Keep your feet clean and dry them very well, including between your toes, after bathing.
- If you notice any changes in the feet or nails, such as thickening, change in color, stitches or lesions, see a podiatrist.
- Be careful with the cut of the nail, avoid cutting it too short or with the edges too rounded. It is recommended to file the edges of the nails instead of cutting them.
- Do not share manicure instruments and prefer to perform procedures with a specialized professional.
Why look for a podiatrist?
There are many possible causes for the appearance of corns and calluses. They can result from shoes that are too tight, poor posture, friction and even internal causes.
So even if they are removed, they will continue to appear if the problem is not identified and addressed. Therefore, consulting a podiatrist is the best way to get rid of corns and calluses permanently. This professional will be able to identify the cause and indicate the best treatment for your specific case.
Plus, having the expertise and experience of a podiatrist means you're not putting your feet's health at risk.
Improperly performed procedures can be the gateway to infections or far more serious problems. Especially for elderly or diabetic patients.
A podiatrist is a professional trained to find the origin of corns and calluses, in addition to recommending the most appropriate procedures to resolve the problem.
When removal is necessary, the podiatrist also has the proper equipment and supplies, as well as the training necessary to perform the procedure without causing injury or aggravating the problem.
Calicides, for example, should only be handled by medical professionals. Improper use or on injured feet can greatly aggravate the condition. The same goes for the thinning process.
So be sure to schedule an evaluation with a podiatrist if you suffer from corns and calluses. Your feet deserve this care!
