Corns & Calluses

A callus is an extended area of thickened, hard skin on the soles of the feet. It is often a symptom of an underlying problem such as incorrect footwear, gait issues, or bone deformation. Skin type can also play a role in callus formation, and elderly people, lacking fatty tissue in their skin can have a greater propensity for calluses.

Corns are caused by pressure or friction over a bony area, such as a joint, and can be very painful when its core presses against a nerve. There are several different types of corns, the most common of which are ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ corns,

Corns and calluses are often found on the balls of the feet, tops of the toes, on the heels and or the sides of toenails. Anyone can get corns or calluses, though elderly are particularly at risk due to loss of fatty tissue in their skin.

As calluses and corns are generally symptoms of other problems, a podiatrist should examine your feet and biomechanics determine the root cause. To treat a corn or callus, a podiatrist will usually remove some of the hard skin of the callus or corn, so that the center core can be removed. To allow the skin to heal and prevent recurrence, a podiatrist may alleviate pressure with soft padding or supportive orthotic devices that fit into your shoes. A podiatrist may also evaluate the footwear to consider if there are more suitable choices to redistribute pressure inside the shoe.