Understanding Corns and Calluses: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
Calluses and corns are thickened, hardened areas of skin that form in response to repeated friction or pressure.
Shoes that are too tight or have narrow toe boxes can cause friction and pressure on specific areas of the feet, resulting in corns and calluses.
Wearing high-heeled shoes increases pressure on the balls of the feet and toes, which can cause corns and calluses.
Activities that involve repetitive motions or pressure, such as walking barefoot or using hand tools, can lead to corns and calluses.
Anatomical abnormalities in the feet, such as hammertoes, bunions, and bone spurs, can alter foot mechanics and increase pressure on certain areas of the feet, causing corns and calluses.
Corns and calluses are more likely to develop if the fat padding on the soles of the feet is reduced due to aging, weight loss, or medical conditions.
Common symptoms of corns and calluses include thickened, roughened areas of skin with a hardened, sometimes raised center.
Thickened, roughened skin
Hard or waxy areas of skin
Discomfort or pain when pressure is applied to the affected area
Yellowish or grayish discoloration of the skin
Flaky or dry skin
Hard corns may have a small, central core (hard corns) or appear as soft, swollen lesions between the toes (soft corns).
Corns and calluses are typically diagnosed by examining the affected skin clinically. Healthcare providers may also inquire about footwear, activities, and medical history to determine potential contributing factors. Further evaluation may be necessary to rule out other skin conditions or complications in some cases.
Corns and calluses are treated to reduce discomfort, thicken the skin, and prevent recurrence. Common treatment options include:
Shoes with adequate cushioning and support can reduce friction and pressure on the feet, preventing corns and calluses from forming.
Over areas prone to corns and calluses, padding or cushioning devices, such as moleskin pads or silicone toe sleeves, can reduce friction and protect the skin.
Exfoliation: Gently exfoliating the skin with a pumice stone or foot file can remove dead skin cells and reduce corns and calluses.
Applying moisturizing creams or lotions to the affected areas can help soften the skin and reduce dryness, making corns and calluses less likely.
In some cases, healthcare providers may trim or pare down thickened areas of skin using sterile instruments. Seeking professional assistance for corn and callus removal is important to avoid injury or infection.
It is important to take proactive measures to reduce friction and pressure on the skin in order to prevent corns and calluses:
You should wear shoes that fit well and allow your toes to move freely. Avoid shoes with narrow toe boxes or high heels.
Use protective padding: Apply padding or cushioning devices to areas of the feet prone to friction or pressure, especially when engaging in activities that may exacerbate corns and calluses.
It is important to keep the feet clean and dry, and exfoliate the skin regularly to prevent the buildup of dead skin cells. Keep the skin moisturized to keep it soft and supple.
If you have foot deformities that may contribute to corns and calluses, such as bunions or hammertoes, seek appropriate treatment.
A corn or calluse is a thickened, hardened area of the skin that develops as a result of friction or pressure on the skin. In order to effectively manage corns and calluses and maintain healthy, comfortable feet, it is important to understand the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies. It is important to see a healthcare provider if you experience persistent or severe corns and calluses, or if you have diabetes or other medical conditions that affect foot health.
