Athletes Can Say Goodbye to Corns and Calluses with These Footcare Tips
Athletes Can Say Goodbye to Corns and Calluses with These Footcare Tips
Corns and calluses are some of the most common foot complaints, often resulting in pain and discomfort that interferes with daily mobility.
Athletes tend to experience them more than most, and while not medically serious, they can become increasingly painful if left untreated – creating an unnecessary hurdle when training and competing.
What Are Corns and Calluses?
Calluses typically form on weight-bearing areas like the soles of the feet or palms, while corns are smaller, more concentrated areas of thickened skin, often forming on toes or between them. Though common, these can be painful and affect performance if untreated.
High-Risk Sports for Corns and Calluses
Athletes and active individuals are prone to corns and calluses when they engage in high-impact sports. Among these are:
· Running and Hiking: The constant impact on the heel and ball of the foot during running or trail hikes can lead to thickened skin areas.
· Basketball and Dancing: In both these sporting codes, the constant pivoting and quick direction changes can cause intense friction on pressure points.
· High-Impact Workouts: Exercises like box jumps, plyometrics, and stair climbing place strain the ball of the foot, leading to corns.
· Racquet Sports: Any sports that involve gripping racquets, such as tennis, squash, or Padel can lead to calluses on fingers and palms.
· Golf: Similar to racquet sports, golfers also experience calluses on their fingers and palms due to gripping golf clubs.
· Gymnastics and Weightlifting: Continuous bar work and weight gripping contribute to hardened skin on the hands.
Preventing Corns and Calluses in Sport
1. Get the Right Shoes
Tight or poorly fitted shoes are a top cause of corns. Athletes should wear shoes that offer enough room to prevent pinching and rubbing, especially during high-impact activities.
2. Get the Right Size
Shoe sizes can vary by brand, so it’s important to measure feet before buying new footwear. Leave about half an inch of space between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. Runners can go up a full size for better comfort. It’s also best to shop in the late afternoon or evening when feet are most swollen.
3. Replace Worn-Out Shoes
Athletic shoes lose their protective function over time. Worn soles reduce shock absorption, and damaged inner linings increase friction, both of which can lead to painful corns or calluses. Replace sports shoes regularly, especially during frequent training sessions.
4. Never Skip the Socks
Socks act as a crucial buffer, preventing skin-on-shoe friction during sport. Invest in high-quality athletic socks that offer cushioning and moisture control.
*Information provided by the publicist.
