Most people would stare back at you in wonder if you asked them to tell you the difference between a Corn and a Callus. Both are hard layers of skin caused by friction, but corns develop on the top of the foot and calluses on the bottom of the foot. Another distinguishing factor is that calluses are usually larger in diameter and corns usually have a hardened center. Corns are more likely to be painful.

Causes for a Callus or Corn includes:

• Poor fitting shoes – shoes need to fit properly to your foot. Snug but not too snug is a good description
• Not wearing socks – no socks means the skin and the shoes will rub against each other and can cause both a Corn and a Callus
• Sudden stop and go activities – sports like basketball and tennis
• Higher heel shoes – put pressure on toes

 

Risk factors for a Corn or Callus include:

• Bunions – a painful and bony bump on your foot
• Hammertoe – bent toes will push them against the shoe
• Genetics – general family bone structure could be a factor in developing a Corn or Callus

 

Treatments for Corns and Calluses include:

• Soaking in warm water for 10 minutes to soften the skin
• File carefully with a pumice stone – soak in warm water and slide the stone sideways to remove the skin. DO NOT remove too much skin.
• Padding – You may be able to find padding at your local pharmacy
• Proper fitting shoes – will relieve stress on the hardened area
• Trim toes nails – untrimmed nails put pressure on the toes and skin
• Skin moisturizer – a good skin moisturizer can help soften and loosen the hardened skin

 

If you believe you are developing a Corn or a Callus or have any other concerns about the health of your feet, make an appointment with one of our podiatrists here at Ankle and Foot Specialists PC. Our website is monpod.com. Our Drs Scott E. Hughes, Greg P. Vogt, and Christine L. Tumele will asses your condition and recommend the proper treatment. We have two offices. One located in Monroe, MI and the other in Lambertville, MI.