Sore little toe. A callous, corn or a verruca?

Thanks to Helen for this question and also for permission to put it onto this blog.

Hi Sally,

I have a foot question for you. My little toe on right side is really sore - feels like either small hard skin pressure point or possibly like a verrucca but I don't think it is that as doesn't look like it. Who would be the best type of professional to see? Chiropodist? Podiatrist? Really not sure. Any advice?

Helen

Hi Helen

That is a usual spot for a callous or a corn particularly if you have been wearing thicker socks during the cold weather so that your shoes have, in effect, been smaller. I am assuming that it is on the upper side of the toe rather than underneath in which case you are right and it is probably not a verruca.(Not always but usually). Have a look at your regular shoes/boots and if the toe has made an impression on the top of it then it is rubbing, and again is likely to be a callous or a corn. A Chiropodist/ Podiatrist will be able to pare the skin away for you and take out the corn if you have one. They should also advise you on padding and footware. It will return unless the pressure is removed so either wearing a better shape of shoe (not pointed) or a slightly wider one until the weather is warm enough to lose the thick socks would be a good idea. Padding either side of the corn can help (not over it as that can make the pressure worse). As a rough guide to the best shape of shoe, stand on a piece of card such as an old cereal box and draw round your foot. Cut it out and hold the shape up to your shoe sole. If there is much overlap of card than the shoe is the wrong size or shape. Hope that helps.

Regards Sally

Hi Sally

The callous / corn is on the side / underside of the toe near to the toe nail - I thought it was a problem with the nail at first but it's not.

You are spot on about the thick socks and I only have one pair of flat boots here which I have been wearing all winter and they are not particularly good as although they are flat and easy to walk in, they are 'fashion' boots and now you mention it, I have always been able to 'feel' them in that area. I also have a habit of wearing a pair of socks over tights if wearing those boots as they are not comfortable with tights - I suppose I should have thought that this would lead to trouble.

A good excuse to go shopping I think for more supportive boots!

Helen