Can corns and calluses be prevented?
Feet are an often overlooked part of the body until a problem develops. With a little bit of attention and care, most cases of corns or calluses can be prevented. Things to keep in mind include:
- Wear shoes that are comfortable and fit well. Shoes should support your feet, be well-cushioned and have shock-absorbing soles. The toe area of shoes should have enough length and width so toes are not rubbing against the shoe or other toes. This would also mean avoiding high-heeled narrow-toed shoes that push the toes forward causing them to rub against the shoe or each other. Avoid hard-soled or leather-soled shoes unless they have enough padding (or you add padding) to cushion your feet.
- Wear socks with your footwear. Make sure socks are snug enough that they don’t bunch up under your feet.
- Use cushioned or padded insoles. If you have had corns or calluses in the past, you may want to ask your doctor about customized insoles. These inserts can even out weight-bearing forces on the bottom of your foot to prevent calluses from forming. Also use lamb’s wool (not cotton) between your toes to relieve friction and soften corns.
- Wear gloves when you are doing manual labor or working with heavy or rough materials that can damage the skin on your hands or fingers.
- Inspect your feet daily and keep them clean. Wash your feet in warm soapy water, dry them and apply a moisturizing foot cream. This helps keep your skin soft and supple.
- Keep your toenails trimmed.
- Don’t walk barefoot.
- Apply a daily foot powder to keep your feet dry if you have sweaty feet.