Corns and calluses are areas of thickened skin that develop to protect that area from irritation. They occur due to friction i.e. when something rubs against the foot repeatedly or from excess pressure against part of the foot. Callus can occur on the bottom of the foot, or on the top of the foot (or toe). However, the location of the thickened skin is less important than the pattern of thickening: flat, widespread skin thickening indicates a callus, and skin lesions that are thicker or deeper indicate a corn.
Corns and calluses may become painful if they get too thick. In people with diabetes or decreased circulation, they can lead to more serious foot problems.
Causes
Corns often occur where a toe rubs against the interior of a shoe. Excessive pressure at the balls of the feet—common in women who regularly wear high heels—may cause calluses to develop on the balls of the feet.
People with certain deformities of the foot, such as hammer toes, are prone to corns and calluses.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Our podiatrists will conduct a thorough examination of your feet and they may also want to inspect your shoes and watch you walk. Corns and calluses are diagnosed based on appearance and history.
Corns and calluses are most effectively reduced with a surgical blade and our trained podiatrists/chiropodists will carefully shave away the thickened, dead skin and remove the corns. The procedure is painless because the skin is already dead. Unless the cause of the friction or pressure can be eradicated, callus and corns tend to recur and regular routine treatments may be advised. Additional treatments may be needed if the corn or callus recurs. Our Podiatrists/chiropodist may also provide advice on your foot wear in order to help prevent re-occurrence.
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