and Treating Hand Corns: Causes and Solutions

Q: and Treating Hand Corns: Causes and Solutions

Hello Rene： The causes of corns include pressure points, abnormal keratin growth, and skeletal structure issues. <br>We recommend that when you notice the symptoms described, you should promptly visit a public hospital under the Department of Health in your city or county and con

Plantar warts on the hands?

Dr.
Hong: Hello, I have developed a small callus on the palm side of the first phalanx of my left middle finger.
After I trimmed it with scissors, it grew larger.
I also purchased corn pads, but they were ineffective.
A month later, it has formed into a larger corn (approximately 0.3-0.4 cm in diameter) and is accompanied by significant tenderness (sometimes it hurts even without pressure).
Additionally, a small callus the size of a pinhead has appeared on the palm of my thumb, which also has slight tenderness.
May I ask: 1.
As an office worker who does not engage in household chores, why would I develop a corn without any specific pressure points on my hands? 2.
How should I manage this? Thank you.

Rene, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/08/18

Dr. Hong Zhengsheng reply Dermatology

Hello Rene: The causes of corns include pressure points, abnormal keratin growth, and skeletal structure issues.
We recommend that when you notice the symptoms described, you should promptly visit a public hospital under the Department of Health in your city or county and consult with a dermatologist.
All of our physicians are very willing to assist you.
Thank you for using "Taiwan e-Hospital" to ask your questions.
"Taiwan e-Hospital" cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2006/08/18

More Info

Corns, or calluses, are thickened areas of skin that develop in response to repeated friction or pressure. They are most commonly found on the feet but can also occur on the hands, particularly in individuals who engage in activities that require repetitive hand movements or grip. In your case, the development of corns on your fingers, particularly the middle finger and thumb, suggests that there may be some underlying factors contributing to this condition.

Causes of Hand Corns
1. Friction and Pressure: Even if you do not perform heavy manual labor or household chores, everyday activities such as typing, using tools, or gripping objects can create friction against the skin. This can lead to the formation of corns, especially if there are any irregularities in how you grip or hold objects.

2. Improper Grip: If you are using tools or objects that do not fit your hand well, or if your grip is too tight, this can increase pressure on specific areas of your fingers, leading to corn formation.

3. Skin Conditions: Certain skin conditions can predispose individuals to develop corns. If you have a history of skin issues, this could be a contributing factor.

4. Footwear: While you mentioned that you are an office worker and not involved in heavy physical activities, the type of shoes you wear can also affect your hand health. If you frequently carry heavy bags or use a laptop, the pressure on your hands can lead to corns.

Treatment Options
1. Avoid Self-Cutting: It is important to avoid cutting corns with scissors or blades, as this can lead to infections or worsen the condition. Instead, consider using a pumice stone or foot file to gently file down the thickened skin after soaking your hands in warm water.

2. Moisturizing: Regularly moisturizing your hands can help soften the skin and reduce the thickness of corns. Look for creams that contain urea or salicylic acid, which can help exfoliate the skin.

3. Protective Padding: Using protective pads or corn cushions can help alleviate pressure on the affected areas. These can be found at most pharmacies and can provide relief while you continue your daily activities.

4. Limit Friction: Identify activities that may be causing the friction and try to modify your grip or use tools that are ergonomically designed to reduce pressure on your fingers.

5. Consult a Specialist: If the corn continues to grow or becomes increasingly painful, it may be beneficial to consult a dermatologist or a podiatrist. They can provide treatments such as professional debridement or recommend custom orthotics if necessary.

6. Consider Underlying Conditions: If corns are recurring despite treatment, it may be worth investigating any underlying conditions that could be contributing to skin thickening, such as eczema or psoriasis.

Prevention
To prevent the recurrence of corns, consider the following:
- Ergonomic Tools: Use tools that are designed to minimize strain on your hands. Ergonomic grips can help distribute pressure more evenly and reduce the risk of developing corns.

- Regular Breaks: If your work involves repetitive hand movements, take regular breaks to allow your hands to rest and recover.

- Proper Hand Care: Maintain good hand hygiene and skin care routines, including regular moisturizing and gentle exfoliation.

In summary, while corns can be a nuisance, they are manageable with proper care and attention. By understanding the causes and implementing preventive measures, you can reduce the likelihood of developing corns in the future. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking professional medical advice is always a prudent step.

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