If you’ve ever noticed a thickened, rough patch of skin on your feet, you may have wondered whether it’s a corn or a callus. While these two foot nuisances are often lumped together, they’re actually quite different in their causes, symptoms, and treatments. Understanding the difference can help you prevent discomfort and know when it’s time to seek professional help from a podiatrist. Let’s break it down!
What Are Corns and Calluses?
Both corns and calluses are areas of thickened skin that develop as a natural response to friction and pressure. They act as the body’s way of protecting itself, but when they become too thick or painful, they can be a real bother.
Here’s how they differ:
Corns are smaller, rounder, and typically have a hard center. They can develop anywhere on the foot but often develop on the tops and sides of the toes, where shoes create friction. Corns can be quite painful when pressed.
Calluses are larger, broader patches of thickened skin, usually found on the soles of the feet, heels, and balls of the feet. They’re generally not painful but can cause discomfort or get painful if they get too thick.
What Causes Them?
The main culprit behind both corns and calluses is repeated friction and pressure. However, the way this pressure is applied determines whether you develop a corn or a callus.
Causes of Corns:
- Wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes that rub against the toes
- High heels that squeeze the toes together
- Toe deformities such as hammertoes or bunions
- Walking with an abnormal gait that places pressure on certain toes
- Not wearing socks or wearing socks that bunch up inside shoes
Causes of Callus:
- Walking or running frequently, especially barefoot
- Wearing shoes that don’t provide proper support
- Having a job that requires standing for long hours
- Using tools or instruments that cause repeated friction on the hands (though calluses can form on hands as well!)
- Certain foot structures, such as flat feet or high arches, that lead to uneven weight distribution
Prevention: How to Keep Corns and Calluses at Bay
The best way to deal with corns and calluses is to prevent them in the first place. Here are some simple but effective ways to keep your feet smooth and pain-free:
Wear properly fitting shoes. Your shoes should have enough room in the toe box to prevent rubbing and pinching.
Use cushioned insoles. These can help distribute pressure evenly across your feet.
Wear socks. A good pair of socks adds an extra layer of protection against friction.
Keep your feet moisturized. Dry skin can make calluses worse, so apply a good foot cream daily.
File down thickened skin gently. Using a pumice stone or foot file after a shower can help keep calluses under control.
Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces. This can increase friction and lead to more callus formation
How To Treat Corns and Callus At Home
If you already have corns or calluses, don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to manage them. However, it’s important to treat them correctly to avoid making things worse.
At-Home Treatment for Calluses:
- Soak your feet in warm water for 10-15 minutes to soften the skin.
- Use a pumice stone or foot file to gently remove excess dead skin. Never try to cut it off!
- Apply a moisturizer with urea or lactic acid to keep the skin soft.
- Wear cushioned footwear to prevent further irritation.
At-Home Treatment for Corns:
- Use a corn pad or cushion to relieve pressure. (Medicated corn plasters should be avoided in diabetic feet and poor circulation as they can damage the skin and potentially lead to breakdown of the skin and wounds)
- Soak and gently file the area to reduce thickness
- Apply a moisturizing foot cream to keep the skin from becoming too dry.
- Avoid high heels and tight shoes that cause friction.
⚠️ Avoid DIY “cutting” methods! Using sharp tools at home can lead to infections and worsen the problem. If your corns or calluses become painful, seek professional treatment.
When To See A Podiatrist
While mild corns and calluses can be managed at home, there are times when professional care is necessary:
If they become painful or make walking uncomfortable
If they keep coming back despite preventive measures
If you have diabetes or circulation issues, as these conditions increase the risk of foot infections
If they change in color or texture, as this could indicate an underlying issue
A podiatrist can safely remove corns and calluses, provide custom orthotics to prevent recurrence, and recommend treatment plans tailored to your foot structure and lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
Corns and calluses may be common, but they don’t have to be a constant nuisance. By understanding the differences, causes, and treatments, you can keep your feet comfortable and healthy. And remember—if your foot discomfort isn’t improving, a podiatrist is just a call away!
👣 Got persistent foot pain? Book an appointment with a podiatrist today and give your feet the care they deserve!