Understanding Foot Corn and Callus in School-Going Children

Foot health is essential for school-going children as their feet grow and develop. Among the common foot problems children experience are corns and calluses, which cause discomfort and affect daily activities. In this blog, we explore the causes of foot corn and callus in children and provide tips on prevention and corn removal.

Corns and calluses are areas of thickened skin that develop as a protective response to friction and pressure. Though used interchangeably, they are slightly different:

• Corns are small, circular, and form on the top or sides of toes. They are painful when pressed.
• Calluses are large, broader areas of thickened skin forming on the soles or the heels. They are not painful but can cause discomfort when they become thick.

Causes of Corns and Calluses in Children

Ill-Fitting Shoes: Wearing shoes that are too tight, too loose, or have insufficient padding can cause repeated friction and pressure on the feet, leading to the development of corns and calluses.

Excessive Activity: Active children who engage in sports or play for extended periods experience increased friction, especially if they are not wearing proper footwear.

Foot Deformities: Conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet alter the natural alignment of the foot, causing certain areas to bear more pressure and develop corns or calluses.

Barefoot Walking: Walking barefoot on hard surfaces can cause the skin to thicken in response to the constant friction, leading to callus formation.

Socks and Foot Hygiene: Wearing socks that are too tight or made of rough materials can contribute to friction. Poor foot hygiene can exacerbate the problem.

Prevention and Removal of Corns and Calluses

Prevention is better than cure. Here are steps parents can take to prevent the formation of corns and calluses in their children's feet:

1. Choose the proper footwear: Ensure your child wears well-fitting shoes with arch support and cushioning. Avoid shoes that are too tight or too loose.
2. Encourage good foot hygiene: Teach your child to wash their feet daily, dry them thoroughly, and moisturize to keep the skin soft and supple. It can prevent the skin from becoming dry and prone to thickening.
3. Use protective pads: For children prone to corns or calluses, consider using non-medicated corn pads or gel cushions to reduce friction in vulnerable areas.
4. Regular foot checks: Make it a habit to inspect your child's feet regularly for signs of corns, calluses, or other foot problems.

Removal of corns and calluses can be done safely at home if they are not severe. Here’s how:

Soaking the feet in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes softens the skin, making it easier to remove the thickened areas.

After soaking, gently rub the corn or callus with a pumice stone or foot file. Be careful not to remove too much skin, to avoid irritation or infection.

Apply a thick, emollient cream or lotion to the feet after exfoliating to keep the skin soft and prevent the return of corns and calluses.

If the corn or callus is painful or your child has underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, consult a podiatrist at DeNiel Foot and Ankle Centerfor professional treatment.

Corns and calluses are common foot issues in school-going children, but with proper care and attention, they can be easily prevented and treated. Ensuring that your child wears appropriate footwear, maintains good foot hygiene, and gets regular foot checks can go a long way in keeping their feet healthy and comfortable. If you notice foot problems in your child, do not hesitate to seek professional advice from a podiatrist to prevent complications and ensure your child's feet are in the best condition possible.