Blisters, Corns, and Calluses: Common Foot Ailments

Blisters, corns and calluses are a fairly common foot ailment for many people. Generally, calluses develop on the feet, whereas corns and blisters form on both the hands and the feet. In any case, blisters, corns, and calluses are a defensive sign of foot distress.

Blisters

According to News Medical Life Science, blisters develop when the outermost layer (epidermis) of the skin is damaged. In order to protect the lower layers of tissue from becoming more damaged, fluid will flow into the inflicted area and create a raised sac. The fluid within the blister can be clear (a serum blister), infected and pus-filled or bloody (a blood blister).
Typically, a blister takes around three to seven days depending on care, the location and the type of blister. In addition, there are a variety of things that can cause blisters. For instance:

Chemical burns
Extreme cold that cause tissue damage such as frostbite
Friction type blisters such as shoes rubbing against your ankles
Blisters caused by intense heat like excessive sunlight (sunburns)
Various skin conditions like certain allergies, eczema, cold sores, shingles and chickenpox

Corns

Conferring to WebMD, a corn is a thick, hardened layer of skin that have built up near a bony area of a toe or between the toes or fingers. Oftentimes they are caused by friction such as the pressure from your shoes that rub against the toes. Generally a corn forms in a circle on the bony sides. There are both dry and soft corns that develop from moist or dry conditions. For instance, they often form between the sweaty areas like between the toes. Moreover, corns can be painful and easily formed if you have bunions. If you are diabetic, it is highly recommended that you seek a medical professional to have a corn removed.

Calluses

A callus is typically formed on the feet. The condition happens when the feet are exposed to friction over a long period of time. Generally, a thick layer of hard skin forms on the heel and sole of the foot as well as the hands. The most common conditions for getting calluses include:

Genetics
Age; mostly older people
Constant friction due to bad fitting shoes especially extra dry skin

When taking care of a callus it is best not to try and remove it with a sharp tool. However, a pumice stone can be used after you shower. Cushioned pads and in-soles are also helpful. Sometimes your doctor may recommend treatment that includes softening the callus.

American Foot and Leg Specialists

It is best to visit a foot specialist as soon as possible if you have any questions or concerns about blisters, corns or calluses. At American Foot and Leg Specialists we are dedicated to using the most advanced technology and therapies available. Actually, we use the most advanced methods of treatment that corresponds to your condition. What is more, American Foot and Leg Specialists offer preventative methods that support any type of condition.

If you have blisters, corns or calluses and suspect you may need professional care, contact the professional staff or make an appointment at any of our convenient locations in Georgia – Stockbridge, Fayetteville, Forest Park and Locust Grove. Additionally, American Foot and Leg Specialists serve the South Atlanta Metro area in Douglas County, Cobb County, Fayette County, Fulton County, Clayton County and Henry County. Our hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday thru Friday.

Note: This article is not meant to replace professional medical advice. If you have any concerns or questions about issues with blisters, corns or calluses, make an appointment with one of our specialists at American Foot and Leg Specialists or call your MD.