What are corns & calluses?

 

A callus is an area of hard, thickened skin on the foot that forms in response to pressure or friction, usually through poor-fitting shoes, altered foot function or bone structure. When pressure is concentrated in a small area, a corn, which has a central core, may develop. If the pressure is not relieved, calluses and corns can become painful.

 

Common sites of corns and calluses are the ball of the foot, under the big toe, tips and joints of the toes and any bony prominence. ‘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 cause inflammation, which can result in pain, swelling and redness. 

 

The symptoms can include:

• Thickened patch of hard skin on the foot

• Hard, small bump of skin that may have a central core

• White and rubbery bumps of skin (‘soft’ corns)

• Pain when pressure or friction is applied to the area.​

 

Causes of corns and calluses:

Anyone can develop corns or calluses, but some groups of people are particularly at risk, including:

• Elderly people – because ageing skin loses elasticity and fatty tissue

• People who spend a lot of time standing up – because of the continuous weight-bearing pressure on their feet

• People with feet that roll inwards (flat feet) – because of excessive pressure on the ball of the foot beneath the big toe, and the inside of the heel

• People with feet that roll outwards (high-arched feet) – because of excessive pressure on the outside of the foot

• A person with foot complaints (such as a hammer toe, bunions or arthritis) – because a bony prominence can rub against the shoe or neighbouring toes

• People who regularly wear shoes that are narrow, tight, ill-fitting or high-heeled.

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Treatment of corns & calluses

 

The body protects skin tissues from pressure and/or friction damage by producing an area of hard skin. So unless the cause of the pressure or friction is found and removed or reduced, calluses and corns will continue to form. Over-the-counter treatments, such as corn plasters, can damage the healthy surrounding skin if you use them incorrectly. Never try to cut away or scrape a callus, as there is a risk of infection if you accidentally cut yourself.  If you have corns or calluses, or think you may be developing them, see an Easy Feet podiatrist for treatment.