A Ballet Dancer’s Feet

The "box" of a pointe shoe resides within the front end of the shoe. The box itself cannot be seen, but its shape is exposed by the tightly stretched outer fabric of the shoe. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Have you ever been to a live ballet performance? It is beautiful and a sight to behold, but the serene look on the faces of the performers may be hiding a world of pain and agony. They struggle so to keep their spots, win roles and perform without complaint. What is it that makes them return to their dressing rooms in tears? Pain! It’s a very common ailment suffered by ballet dancers, but also poses a serious risk of infection - CORNS.

Corns, like hair and nails is a skin secretion made up of keratin. They form at points on the body that are sensitive to pressure. They tend to be somewhat pointed, and as the build-up of keratin continues, they can become very painful. In some instances the build-up is so significant and the pressure so great that the corn can actually puncture into the skin and lead to an infection. If you are a dancer you must be particularly aware of the location between the third and fourth toe.  Many dancers experience frequent pinched nerve damage and very little sensation in this area. If a corn becomes infected there, you should seek immediate medical attention. An infected corn may appear similar to an infected pimple, but because of lack of sensation it will not hurt.  Any corn that appears to be infected should be treated by Dr. Boucher. 

You may not develop infected corns, but if it is a condition that is repeatedly bothersome to you, as a dancer, check the fit of your point shoes. Remember your feet can grow as you age and your shoes may be too small. If the wear on the soles of your shoe extend one inch or more beyond the shank, chances are the shoes are too small. Your comfort zone may lie in a pair of shoes one-half size larger.

At home treatment for corns may include:

• Regular foot soaks
• Using a pumice stone to reduce corns and calluses
• Over-the-counter non-medicated corn pads

If you have corns in areas that are difficult to treat, or if they are large and bothersome, contact Dr. Boucher’s office at (203) 238-3668. She has a treatment option for you that will remove the corn and allow you to continue on your way with little or no pain.
 
References:

http://www.centralctfootcare.com/Central-Connecticut-Footcare-Center-LLC.html
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1083/is_n4_v68/ai_14986740/

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