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Corns and calluses resulting from mechanical hyperkeratosis
1College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery, Des Moines University-Osteopathic Medical Center, Iowa 50312, USA.
American Family Physician
|June 21, 2002
Summary
Corns and calluses form due to skin thickening from pressure or friction, often caused by ill-fitting shoes or foot deformities. Treatment focuses on relieving mechanical stress, with most cases resolving through conservative measures like proper footwear.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Biomechanics
- Podiatry
Background:
- Corns and calluses are common skin conditions resulting from hyperkeratosis.
- They develop in response to chronic excessive pressure or friction on the skin.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the causes and conservative management of corns and calluses.
- To emphasize the importance of addressing underlying mechanical factors.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on the pathophysiology and treatment of hyperkeratosis.
- Analysis of mechanical factors contributing to corn and callus formation.
Main Results:
- Mechanical stresses from ill-fitting footwear, abnormal foot mechanics, and high activity levels are primary causes.
- Hyperkeratosis is a physiological response to these mechanical forces.
Conclusions:
- Conservative management, including properly fitting shoes and padding, is effective for most cases.
- Surgical intervention is reserved for cases unresponsive to conservative treatment and aims to correct mechanical abnormalities.