Overview
Corns and calluses are areas of thick, hardened skin that form where there is repeated pressure or rubbing, most often on the feet from tight or ill-fitting footwear. A callus is a broad patch of hard skin, while a corn is a smaller, deeper, often painful core. They are the body's way of protecting the skin, and are harmless but can become painful. They improve by removing the pressure with better footwear and padding; people with diabetes should have them treated carefully.
Symptoms
- A thick, hardened patch of skin (callus), often on the sole
- A small, firm, sometimes painful lump with a core (corn)
- Pain or tenderness on pressure
- Rough, dry or flaky skin over the area
- Corns between the toes that may feel soft
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if a corn or callus is very painful or inflamed, or if you have diabetes or poor circulation — do not cut them yourself.
Causes
Repeated pressure and friction from tight or poorly fitting shoes, high heels, not wearing socks, and foot deformities like bunions.