Corn and calluses in golfer feet

A competitive golfer will know that problems with the feet, even a minor painful corn or callus, can impede timing and balance to the point where it affects the scorecard at the end of the day.

Many golfers like the walking course as part of their exercise. A full round of golf adds up to a seven km workout that can reduce stress and improve cardiovascular health. It is common to have some aches and pain in golfer feet along the way especially if there are slope and uneven ground.

Most common cause of corn and callus foot problem is related:

• Bio-mechanical abnormality like flat foot, broad feet or high arch foot
• Improperly fitted shoes
• Worn out shoes
• Wearing wrong type of shoes for the sports involved
• Overuse

Corns and callus are one of the most common feet problems found in golfer. It is cause by repetitive rubbing of the skin around the toes, sole or bony prominence of the foot against the shoes. Tight shoes can cause the toe to rub against another toe. Skin around bunion is also prone to develop into callus.

Common sites of corn and callus formation are the ball of the foot, under the big toe, the tips and the tops of toes. ‘Soft’ corns may develop between the toes, where the skin is moist from sweat or inadequate drying. Sometimes, the pressure of the corn or callus may produce inflammation, which can result in discomfort, acute pain, swelling and redness.

Self help tips:

• Check your golf shoes
• Applying pads around the corn area
• Wearing larger shoes to comfortably fit your foot without rubbing
• Use buggy temporarily
• Topical medication to soften the corn
• See a doctor for oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication to help reduce the pain and swelling
• Painful calluses can be removed surgically
• Use padded insoles or orthosis for flat footer to improve the bio-mechanics and reduce friction
• Good and thick socks can reduce friction between the feet and shoes

Tips to select the most appropriate golf shoes:

• Shop for shoes in the afternoon or evening
• Buy golf shoe with a half size or one size bigger then your dress shoes
• Try them on with the same socks, insole or orthosis that you would wear on the course
• Tie both left and right shoes tightly and walk around the store for a few minutes before making a decision

When there is pain and inflammation, you should treated and reduce your golf games for daily golfer. When the pain eased, your return should be gradual. As much as you may want to get back to your game, take it slowly.