There are few examples of allergies to corn and callous medication. The kerolytic agents used to treat these conditions will have adverse effects on normal skin and patients must be warned of this problem. Excess use also may 'burn' even the hardened skin. Establish patient preference Patients should be offered the choice between liquids and plasters. Removing the source of pressure is the first rule.
Corns are predominantly the result of poor-fitting shoes, so shoe choice is important.
Pain may be reduced with pressure-relieving pads. These pads should be shaped to redistribute the load onto the surrounding skin, leaving the hyperkeratised area free of pressure, thus reducing new development. Removing local skin again reduces pressure. Careful paring of the skin is one option. If large areas are involved or the problem is long-standing, the patient may be referred to a chiropodist.