Corns and Calluses

Corns and calluses are a buildup of thick skin which develops due to repeated friction, rubbing or

irritation on the skin.  They typically appear on feet, hands or fingers.

Corns are small and round and tend to show up on the tops or sides of toes.  Calluses are hard and thick areas of skin.  They tend to show up on the bottom on feet or on bony areas, such as the heel, big toe, and the ball of the foot.

Some medical conditions make corns and calluses more likely.  If, for example, you have arthritis in your feet, bunions, bone spurs or hammertoes you are more likely to develop them.  They can also be caused by standing, walking or running for an extending period of time; going barefoot; not wearing socks, incorrect posture; physical hobbies; and foot deformities.

While corns and calluses can cause pain, mild cases may not require treatment.  If your shoes are causing the corn or callus, you should consider finding a new pair.

Contact us if your corns or calluses are giving you pain or discomfort.  If you have diabetes, circulation issues or other serious illnesses, it is important to have your feet examined.

References:

American Podiatric Medical Association.  Corns and Calluses.  https://www.apma.org/Patients/FootHealth.cfm?ItemNumber=1346

Cleveland Clinic.  Corns and Calluses.  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16896-corns-and-calluses