Banish Your Blisters, Corns, and Callouses!
Blisters, corns, and callouses are three of the most common foot problems Canadians experience. Each condition can easily pop up and ruin your day by leaving your feet aching and in pain. Why do these foot problems develop so easily? Chiropodist Brian Cragg provides information on blisters, corns, and callouses so you can be informed as to why they occur, and how to stop them from developing once and for all.
Blisters occur whenever there is friction between your skin and your shoe. Whether it is an improper fit of shoe, a shoe that rubs in the same spot of your foot, or from not wearing socks with your shoes, blisters will develop. A blister is made up of a clear liquid and can usually be left alone to heal naturally as it helps protect your foot from infection. If the blister doesn’t go away, use a sterile needle to pop the blister so the skin can reattach. Wash the affected area and apply antibacterial cream with a bandage to prevent infection until the skin is fully healed.
A corn is a build-up of hard skin that usually develops on the tops of the toes or in between toes. A corn occurs because of pressure from shoes that cause friction. Avoid cutting the corn or attempting to remove it with a sharp object. Instead, after you shower, use a pumice stone to gently remove the built-up tissue. Padding inserts can also be used to add cushioning when wearing shoes.
Callouses usually develop on the underside of the foot where there is a build-up of hard skin. Unevenly distributed weight, or improper fitting shoes, can cause calluses to form. Removing the hardened skin with a pumice stone, or using extra padding on the affected areas, can help treat callouses. Medications can also be prescribed to help soften the callous.
To prevent these three conditions from being a hassle in your life, make sure you follow these tips:
- Always wear a proper fit shoe that is supportive to your feet.
- Wear socks with your shoes as much as possible.
- Give your feet rest and proper treatment by washing them regularly with warm water.
If you are experiencing further complications with your blisters, corns, or callouses, please contact our office to set up an appointment with Brian. Let him help you maintain your foot health without worry of painful problems!