Corns & Calluses

What are they?

Corns & calluses are thickened, yellowish plaques of skin often found in places where there is friction or pressure. Corns are smaller than calluses and often have a central core of keratin while foot callus is a more diffuse, flattened area of thick skin.

Sometimes ‘soft’ corns may form between the toes where the skin is moist from sweat or inadequate drying. These appear white and rubbery and are also caused by excessive friction. Corns and calluses can be very painful and debilitating. Pain on weight bearing is often the chief complaint. If left untreated, they can lead to ulceration and/or infection of the affected area/s.

What causes calluses & corns in the feet?

• Uneven weight distribution and abnormal foot mechanics
• Poorly fitting footwear
• Excessive standing and walking
• Bunions
• Claw toes
• Arthritis in the feet

Who gets calluses and corns?

Almost everyone! In fact, calluses and corns affect more people than any other kind of foot problem. Some people have a natural tendency to develop calluses because of their skin type. For instance, elderly people have less fatty tissue and elasticity in their feet, people with arthritis in their feet, people who work in occupations that require them to spend a lot of time on their feet, and people with dry skin.

Treatment

• Removal of the hard skin by parring it.  This is relatively painless and the pain can be relieved within 48 hours if not sooner
• Better fitted footwear
• Foot insoles/orthoses to counteract the abnormal foot mechanics and provide better cushioning
• For corns in between the toes, custom-made interdigital toe dividers are very useful
• Over-the-counter remedies such as corn paint or plasters must be avoided in people who have diabetes, poor circulation, peripheral neuropathy, poor eyesight or those that have difficulties reaching their feet