Corns and calluses are areas of thickened skin that develop as a response to repeated friction, pressure, or irritation, commonly found on the feet or hands. Corns are usually smaller, hardened bumps with a central core, often surrounded by inflamed skin, and tend to form on the tops or sides of toes. Calluses are larger, diffuse patches of tough skin, typically yellowish or grayish, and mainly occur on weight-bearing areas like the soles. Calluses are rarely painful and have less-defined edges, whereas corns are often tender and can hurt when pressed. Both conditions are the skin’s way of protecting underlying tissues from injury due to chronic pressure or rubbing.
Corns form because of repeated pressure and friction on the skin, especially over bony areas of the feet or toes. This mechanical stress causes the skin to thicken and harden, producing a dense central core. Ill-fitting shoes, improper gait, or not wearing socks can all contribute to corn formation.
Tight or high-heeled footwear, toe deformities (hammer toe), gait abnormalities and occupations requiring prolonged standing.
Professional paring with a sterile scalpel, salicylic acid plasters to soften keratin, followed by cushioning and footwear adjustments.
Professional paring with a sterile scalpel, salicylic acid plasters to soften keratin, followed by cushioning and footwear adjustments.
No tests; clinical exam suffices. Consider vascular or neuropathy assessment if healing is delayed (e.g., in diabetes).
