Coastal Podiatry Foot & Ankle Clinic

Corns, Calluses, and Cracked Heels

At Coastal Podiatry Foot & Ankle Clinic on the Sunshine Coast, we understand the discomfort and mobility challenges that corns, calluses, and cracked heels can bring. Our clinic is dedicated to offering advanced treatment solutions to alleviate discomfort, restore skin health, and prevent future occurrences, ensuring our patients enjoy comfortable and healthy feet.

Coastal Podiatry

Medical Pedicure at Coastal Podiatry Foot & Ankle Clinic

When you visit us for your medical pedicure appointment, we prioritise your concerns and address any foot-related issues you may have. Our process begins with a thorough assessment of your feet’s skin and nails, followed by a discussion about the treatment plan tailored to your needs. Once we’ve confirmed your satisfaction with the plan, we proceed with your care.

Medical Pedicure

Our Services

During your Medical Pedicure appointment, which focuses on trimming nails and addressing corns and calluses, our services include:

Nail Care

Callus and Corn Treatment

Skin Health

Education

Specialised Care Appointments

Scheduling appointments for specialised treatments such as ingrown nail surgery, diabetic foot assessment, or biomechanical assessment for musculoskeletal foot or leg pain.

Coastal Podiatry

Understanding Corns, Calluses, and Cracked Heels

Corns and calluses are your body’s response to friction or pressure, forming thickened layers of skin to protect sensitive tissues. While corns are smaller, hard areas typically found on the toes, calluses develop on the soles of the feet, especially under the heel and the balls of the feet. Cracked heels, characterised by dry, flaky, and sometimes painful skin, can result from excessive dryness and pressure on the heels.

Coastal Podiatry

Causes and Risk Factors

These conditions often result from wearing ill-fitting shoes, not wearing socks, specific foot deformities, or occupations that require prolonged standing. Inherited skin types and aging can also make individuals more prone to developing these issues.

When to Seek Professional Help

While many corns, calluses, and cracked heels can be managed with self-care, certain situations warrant professional podiatric care, especially if you experience severe pain, inflammation, or if you have underlying health conditions like diabetes. Never attempt to remove corns or calluses on your own, as improper handling can lead to infections or further complications.

Coastal Podiatry

Treatment and Prevention at Coastal Podiatry

We employ a variety of treatments tailored to individual needs, including:

Professional Removal

Safe and sterile removal of corns and calluses.

Custom Orthotics

Designed to redistribute pressure and alleviate pain.

Protective Padding and Strapping

Provides immediate relief and supports healing.

Footwear Advice

Recommendations on the best types of shoes to prevent recurrence.

Moisturisation and Skin Care

Guidance on keeping your skin healthy and crack-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my nails discoloured?

Discoloration of nails can occur due to various reasons such as fungal infections, trauma, psoriasis, or underlying health conditions. Consulting a podiatrist can help diagnose the exact cause and provide appropriate treatment.

Why are my nails thickened?

Nail thickening can be attributed to factors like fungal infections, trauma, psoriasis, or aging. It’s essential to seek professional advice to determine the underlying cause and receive proper treatment to prevent further complications.

What's the difference between a corn and a callus?

Corns and calluses are both areas of thickened skin caused by friction or pressure, but they differ in their location and appearance. Corns are typically smaller and have a hard centre, often found on toes, while calluses are larger and develop on weight-bearing areas like the soles of the feet.

Are corns and calluses contagious?

No, corns and calluses are not contagious. They develop in response to repeated pressure or friction on the skin, usually from ill-fitting footwear or certain activities.

Why should people with diabetes not cut their own nails and corns/calluses?

People with diabetes are at a higher risk of foot complications due to reduced blood circulation and nerve damage. Attempting to cut nails or remove corns/calluses at home can lead to injuries, infections, and potentially severe consequences. It’s crucial for individuals with diabetes to seek professional foot care from a podiatrist to avoid complications.

How often should I have my nails and skin looked after?

The frequency of nail and skin care appointments varies depending on individual needs and foot health conditions. As a general guideline, routine skin and nail care appointments are recommended every 6 to 8 weeks to maintain healthy feet and prevent problems such as corns, calluses, and ingrown nails. However, individuals with specific foot concerns or medical conditions may require more frequent visits as advised by their podiatrist.

How can I prevent corns, calluses, and cracked heels?

Choose well-fitting shoes with a wide toe box, use protective coverings like non-medicated pads, and moisturise your feet daily. Proper foot hygiene and avoiding walking barefoot can also help.

Exceptional Care for Patients

At Coastal Podiatry Foot & Ankle Clinic, we’re committed to providing exceptional care for patients suffering from corns, calluses, and cracked heels. Our goal is to address both the symptoms and underlying causes, ensuring lasting relief and improved foot health. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards healthy feet.

Book an Appointment

If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort in your feet, ankles, knees, back or lower limb, book a podiatry appointment today. Our experienced team will provide quality podiatry care using the latest assessments, technology, and techniques.