Corns and calluses running pains

According to Dr. Suzanne Belyea, corns are more likely to form on the toes. They contain a cone-shaped core that can press on nerves below, causing pain. Corns can also become inflamed.

"Corns usually develop because of pressure caused by poorly fitting footwear, such as tight-fitting shoes," Dr. Belyea says. "If you have hammer toes, claw toes or mallet toes, corns can develop when your malformed toe rubs up against the shoe. That can become very painful."

Corns can also develop from wearing tight-fitting socks, or when your foot slides forward in a shoe that fits too loosely. Soft corns are located between the toes where perspiration in the forefoot area softens the affected area. Complications that can arise from corns include bursitis and the development of an ulcer, a foot condition that is especially dangerous to diabetics.

Calluses are caused by excessive pressure on a specific area of the foot and are normally found on the ball of the foot, the heel or the inside of the big toe. Some calluses have a deep-seated core known as a nucleation and can be especially painful to pressure.

This condition is often referred to as intractable plantar keratosis. High-heeled shoes; running shoes that are too small, obesity, abnormalities in the walking motion, flat feet, high arched feet, bony prominences, and the loss of the fat pad on the bottom of the foot, can all lead to calluses.

According to Dr. Belyea, a callus is not a concern unless it causes pain, or shows signs of becoming an ulcer. Diabetics with calluses are at a much greater risk of developing ulcers if they notice pinpoint bleeding underneath the callus, in the form of small black dots under the skin.

Below are some tips to prevent and treat both corns and calluses in your running training:

• Wear properly fitted running footwear with extra room in the toe box.
• Avoid running shoes that are too tight or too loose.
• Use an orthotic or shoe insert made with materials that will absorb shock and transfer pressure away from ‘hot spots’.
• Avoid tight running socks and stockings to provide a healthier environment for the foot.
• Steer clear of corn removing solutions and medicated pads, which can increase irritation and discomfort. Diabetics and all other individuals with poor circulation should never use any chemical agents to remove corns.
• Never try to alleviate the pain caused by calluses or corns by cutting or trimming them with a razor blade or knife. This is dangerous and can worsen the condition. Diabetics especially should never try this type of treatment.

If the problem persists, consult your foot doctor. Surgery to remove corns or calluses should be a last resort.