Corns & Calluses

Understanding Corns & Calluses

Calluses are larger, flat areas of thickened skin that typically develop on the soles of the feet. Corns are smaller, deeper, and usually form on or between the toes. Both are caused by excessive pressure or friction, often from footwear, foot deformities, or abnormal gait patterns.

When to Seek Care

• Pain or discomfort when walking
• Thick, hardened, or raised bump of skin
• Flaky, dry, or waxy skin on the feet
• Bleeding or signs of infection
• If you have diabetes or poor circulation

Professional Treatment

Our chiropodists safely debride (reduce) corns and calluses using sterile instruments — a comfortable procedure that many patients find provides relief. We also address the underlying biomechanical causes through padding, custom orthotics, and footwear advice to help prevent recurrence.

Professional Removal vs. Home Remedies

Medicated corn plasters and home paring carry real risks: the acid in corn plasters cannot tell healthy skin from callused skin and can cause burns or ulcers — particularly dangerous for people with diabetes or poor circulation. A chiropodist removes corns and calluses comfortably with sterile instruments in minutes, then addresses the underlying cause of the pressure so they are less likely to return. The procedure is generally well tolerated.

Preventing Corns and Calluses

Because corns and calluses are caused by pressure and friction, prevention focuses on redistributing that pressure: well-fitted footwear with adequate width and cushioning, protective padding over bony areas, moisturizing to keep skin supple, and custom orthotics when faulty foot mechanics are creating high-pressure spots. Regular chiropody maintenance visits keep hard skin under control before it becomes painful.