Foot Care Education
Corns and Calluses – What’s the Difference?
Both corns and calluses are areas of thickened skin that develop to protect your feet from irritation. While they are similar, corns are typically smaller with a hard center and appear on non-weight-bearing areas like the tops of toes. Calluses are larger, flatter, and usually form on the soles or heels where pressure is highest.
These conditions are extremely common and are often simply linked to pressure or friction from your footwear or the unique way you walk. At FOOT CARE, we focus on gentle, patient-friendly solutions to keep you moving comfortably.
Why Do Corns and Calluses Develop?
Pressure & Footwear
The most common causes are tight or ill-fitting shoes, high heels, and socks that bunch up, all creating friction and areas of focal pressure.
Lifestyle & Action
Frequent standing, long walks, and repetitive sports activities significantly increase the repetitive stress placed on sensitive areas of the foot.
Foot Shape & Structure
Structural traits like bunions, hammer toes, or high arches change how you walk, forcing specific areas to thicken skin to protect itself.
Who is more at risk? Older adults, individuals with standing-heavy occupations, and those with diabetes or poor circulation should be particularly mindful of skin changes, as they may be more prone to the discomfort caused by corns and calluses.
Symptoms
How Do I Know If I Have a Corn or Callus?
Typical signs include areas of hard, rough, or thickened skin. You might feel a burning sensation or localized pain when standing or walking. A corn often has a specific, small 'core' of hard skin in the center, which can feel like a pebble in your shoe. During your assessment at FOOT CARE, our podiatrists will examine these areas, review your footwear, and check your foot shape to rule out other issues and provide a clear diagnosis.
Safe Treatment Options at FOOT CARE
We provide patient-focused care that addresses both the immediate discomfort and the root cause of your corns or calluses. Every treatment is tailored strictly to your individual needs and lifestyle.
Professional Skin Debridement
Our practitioners use precision instruments to safely and painlessly remove the build-up of hard skin. This provides immediate relief from the pressure and discomfort of corns and calluses.
Pressure Redistribution & Padding
We apply expert padding or prescribe custom insoles to offload pressure from high-friction areas. This prevents hard skin from returning and makes every step more comfortable.
Footwear Advice & Foot Health
Managing underlying issues like bunions or hammer toes is key. We offer professional advice on footwear to reduce friction and stop corns from recurring.
A Professional Approach to Safety
Medicated corn plasters and sharp instruments should only be used under expert guidance. This is critical for patients with diabetes or circulation problems where the risk of complication is higher.
Looking After Corns and Calluses at Home
Practical tips for maintaining your foot health at home. Knowing when to self-treat and when to seek professional help is key to preventing complications.
Gentle Filing
Regular use of a foot file or pumice stone can safely manage hard skin. Always file gently and stop if the skin feels sensitive.
Daily Moisture
Choose an urea-based cream to keep skin supple and prevent recurring calluses.
Better Fitting
Wear shoes that are wide enough and well-cushioned to reduce friction.
Home Care Safety
Never cut at hard skin or use 'corn blades' at home. Check your feet regularly, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation, and stop care if skin becomes broken or irritated.
When to Ask for Professional Help
Early intervention can significantly improve your comfort and foot health. We recommend reaching out to our experts if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Ongoing pain or discomfort when standing or walking
- Difficulty performing daily activities due to foot issues
- Exceedingly thick or recurring areas of hard skin
- Changes in skin colour or broken skin around the area
- Conditions like diabetes or poor circulation requiring check-ups
Remember, professional care makes walking more comfortable and helps prevent long-term complications. Our warm and reassuring team is here to support patients of all ages.