Pamper feet to avoid corns and calluses

ROCHESTER, Minn., April 3 (UPI) -- The dull ache of corns and roughness of calluses are preventable, Minnesota's Mayo Clinic Health Letter reports.

The newsletter says unsightly corns and calluses are caused by the rubbing and friction of just-a-little-too-tight shoes, but they will often go away if the friction and rubbing that causes them are eliminated.

If you have corns and calluses, the experts suggest wearing non-medicated corn or callus pads that cushion and protect skin from friction and allow time for corns or calluses to shrink.

Toughened skin can gradually be rubbed away with a washcloth or pumice stone after bathing. Never shave or cut a corn or callus because of the risk of infection, the newsletter advises.

"Most people only need medical treatment if they cause discomfort," the Mayo Clinic Health Letter says in a statement. "For people who have diabetes, extra care and caution are warranted with corns and calluses. Even minor skin injuries can lead to sores that heal slowly and can result in infection."

To avoid corns and calluses the newsletter advises to wear comfortable shoes.