Callus Treatment

• Corns and calluses are symptoms of underlying problems, so self-treatment should follow a diagnosis of the underlying condition.
• High-heeled shoes with narrow pointed toes, not wearing socks, and tight shoes are often the offenders.
• Get a computerised foot scan to measure the pressure.
• Wear comfortable shoes or use modified in-soles in them.
• Remedies such as corn paint or plasters will only treat the symptom and not the problem. These chemicals contain acid that is supposed to ‘eat away' the corn, but the chemical can't tell what is corn and what is normal.
• It is dangerous for diabetics to self-treat with plasters or caps, since this could cause an ulcer that could become infected.
• Before going to bed, spend some time attending to your callus. Dip a cotton pad or ball in castor oil, apply it over the affected area, and tape it in place using a small piece of adhesive tape. Put on a pair of socks to prevent the liquid from staining your sheets.
• Soaking feet in epsom salts and warm water for 20 minutes can help soften calluses and may even temporarily reduce pain by reducing swelling and inflammation below the skin.
• Softening calluses means they can be worn down with a pumice stone. Diabetics shouldn't use a pumice stone. Don't cut or shave calluses, because that can increase the risk of infection. Don't be callous.
• Moisturising regularly with calendula herbal cream or oil can help keep skin soft and prevent the formation of painful skin cracks that could lead to calluses.
• Protect feet with non-medicated corn pads. Also, silicon pads can be fitted into your shoe or pasted on your area of pressure to ease the pressure point.
• Use emollients to keep the skin in good condition.

Reproduced from Outlook Business's Wellness Column by Rachna Chhachhi