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Three of the more common skin conditions that people experience are blisters,
corns, and calluses.
A blister is a shell on the skin surface that often contains a clear
liquid. Blisters can form when the skin is repeatedly rubbed; for instance, when
your shoes keep rubbing the same spot on your foot, when you wear shoes that don’t
fit properly, or when you wear shoes without socks. Blisters can become
infected.
A corn is a build-up of hard skin near a bony area of a toe or between
toes. Corns may be caused by pressure from shoes that rub against the toes or
cause friction between the toes.
A callus is a build-up of hard skin, usually on the underside of the
foot. Calluses are caused by an uneven distribution of weight, generally on the
bottom of the forefoot or heel. Calluses also can be caused by improperly
fitting shoes or by a skin abnormality. It’s normal to have some calluses on
the soles of your feet.
How are these conditions treated?
Blisters--Don’t break or "pop" the blister; the skin covering
the blister helps protect it from infection. Gently wash the area with mild soap
and water or a cleansing towelette, then apply antibacterial cream to the
blister. Cover it with gauze and secure it with hypoallergenic tape to help
protect the skin and prevent infection. Change the dressing at least once a day
and wear different shoes until the blister heals.
Corns--Don’t try to cut the corn or remove it with a sharp object.
After you take a bath or shower, while your skin is still soft, use a pumice
stone or an emery board to smooth and gently remove the build-up of tissue. Move
the emery board or pumice stone in one direction only.
Calluses--Don’t try to cut the callus or remove it with a sharp object.
After your bath or shower, use a pumice stone to gently remove the build-up of
tissue. You can also use cushioned pads and insoles. Your doctor may prescribe
medications to soften the calluses.
How can these conditions be prevented?
- Wear shoes that fit properly and comfortably.
- Wear socks with shoes.
- Use foot powder to help keep your feet dry.
- Wear gloves when you are doing manual labor or working with your
hands.
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