Corns and calluses are the body’s response to repeated friction and pressure against the bony prominences of toes and balls of feet. Protective layers of compacted, dead skin cells are formed, and can become very painful if they become too thick. Corns form on the tops of the toes, and can quickly become inflamed from shoe pressure. Calluses form on the balls of the feet, and after months of neglect can feel like a pebble stuck in your shoe. Fissures, or cracks, in the heels can also form over the dry winter months from the skin’s moisture loss. If left untreated, heel fissures can bleed and become a portal for infection, said Dr. Archer.
Even if you have neglected your feet all winter and are ridden with corns and calluses, a visit to the podiatrist may be all that’s needed to relieve the pain. However, most corns and calluses will reoccur without regular monitoring because the underlying bone is the cause. It’s possible to use a wide variety of pads, or swap out fancy shoes to slow the return of the pesky skin build-up. Yet, in order to say bye-bye to corns for good the underlying cause must be addressed. A podiatric surgeon like Dr. Archer can explain quick in-office procedures that can take away those lumps and bumps for good.
It is important that you never cut corns or calluses with any instrument, and never apply home remedies, except under a podiatrist’s instructions. Many over-the-counter remedies are advertised, but often these home remedies can be dangerous. Self-treatment can often turn a minor problem into a major one like ulcers and infections.
Corns and calluses can be particularly problematic for individuals with diabetes. These patients should always schedule regular yearly visits with their podiatrist to check for foot problems and circulation issues. If more frequent visits are required, the podiatrist will work with the patient to make sure corns and calluses are monitored and treated as needed., Dr. Archer said.
One way to control corns and calluses is to make sure that shoes fit properly. It’s smart to purchase new shoes later in the day when feet tend to be at their largest and replace worn-out shoes as soon as possible. Also, it is important to alternate shoes—don’
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As a Doctor of Podiatry Medicine and an Associate of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (AACFAS), she is currently on staff at Lenox Hill Hospital, and performs her surgeries at Lenox Hill's Ambulatory Surgery Facilities, the Center for Specialty Care, and at 885 Park Avenue's fully accredited operating room. She is a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), and the New York State Podiatric Medical Association (NYSPMA).
Dr. Archer specializes in all aspects of podiatry, with a focus on surgery, and treats a variety of issues affecting the foot and ankle. She completed a surgical residency program at St. Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, NJ where she received extensive training in foot and ankle surgery. She went on to receive further training in foot and ankle arthroscopy. She is specifically equipped to diagnose and treat all foot and ankle problems in her state-of-the-
