Corns and Calluses

What is corns and calluses?

Corns and calluses are areas of thick skin that form in response to repeated pressure or friction. A callus is usually broader and often develops under the foot. A corn is more focused and may occur on or between the toes.

Common symptoms

• A hard or thick patch of skin
• Tenderness when standing or wearing shoes
• A small central core within a corn
• Redness or irritation around the area
• Repeated buildup in the same location

A wart, foreign body, or skin lesion may resemble a corn or callus. People with reduced feeling may not notice when pressure has caused a wound underneath.

Why it happens

Tight shoes, prominent joints, bunions, hammertoes, fat pad changes, and the way the foot meets the ground can create concentrated pressure.

How we evaluate thick or painful skin

We examine the skin and identify the force causing the buildup. The evaluation may include shoe fit, toe position, sensation, circulation, and walking mechanics. X-rays may be used when bone shape contributes.

Treatment options

Treatment aims to relieve pain and reduce the pressure that makes the skin return. It may include:

• Safe reduction of thick skin
• Padding or toe protection
• Shoe changes
• Custom orthotics or offloading
• Treatment of an underlying bunion or hammertoe
• Surgery for selected painful structural causes

Do not use acid corn removers or sharp tools on your feet if you have diabetes, numbness, poor circulation, or fragile skin.

When to schedule an appointment

Schedule care if the area is painful, keeps returning, or shows redness, bleeding, drainage, or a dark spot beneath the skin.

Frequently asked questions

Why does my callus keep returning?

Removing thick skin treats the result. If the same pressure remains, the skin often builds up again.

Can I cut it off myself?

Cutting can cause a wound or infection. Professional care is safer, especially for high risk feet.

Are corns contagious?

No. Corns form from pressure. Warts are caused by a virus and can be contagious.

How to prepare for your appointment

Bring a list or photo of products you have tried and note when the skin change began. Avoid trimming, scraping, or applying a new medicated product immediately before the visit when possible.

Related care

You may also want to explore foot skin and nail care, plantar warts, and corns and calluses.

Foot and ankle care close to home

Signature Foot and Ankle provides personalized care at our Boynton Beach and Loxahatchee offices. Call 561 203 9285 or request an appointment online.