Jan 24, 20231 min read

Corns and callus

Updated: Jun 13, 2023

What is a callus and a corn?

A callus is an area of thickened and hardened skin. It is the body’s protective response to repeated friction over a specific area. A corn is an area of hard callus that becomes molded into a centralised plug and becomes painful. They commonly occur on the forefoot, between the toes, and on the tips or top of your toes.

How do they form?

Repeated pressure over a bony prominence causes corns to form. Abnormalities in your toe and feet positioning can increase chances of developing corns and callus. The way you walk and the shoes you wear can also contribute to callus and corns forming.

What can I do about them?

Podiatry debridement: A podiatrist can remove your callus/ corn with scalpel debridement.
Footwear: Wearing properly fitting shoes can prevent pressure on your feet which causes callus to form. Have your podiatrist review your shoes to check they are appropriate for your feet.
Gel separators/ spreaders: These can be used between your toes to alleviate pressure
Toe sleeves: Protect your toes from the pressure from other toes to prevent interdigital corns.
Emollient, foam, urea based products: During the early stages and between appointments topicals can be used to hydrate the skin and reduce skin build up.