Foot Corns & Callus (hyperkeratosis)

In dermatology, a callus (or callous) is an especially toughened area of skin which has become relatively thick and hard as a response to repeated contact or pressure.

Corns (also called clavi) are specially-shaped calluses that usually occur on thin or glabrous (hairless and smooth) skin surfaces, especially on the top of toes or fingers

What causes corns and calluses?

The small bones of the toes and feet are broader and more lumpy near to the small joints of the toes. If there is extra rubbing (friction) or pressure on the skin overlying a small rough area of bone, this will cause the skin to thicken. This may lead to corns or calluses forming.

The common causes of rubbing and pressure are tight or poor fitting shoes (which tend to cause corns on the top of the toes and side of the little toe) and too much walking or running (which tends to cause callus on the sole of the feet.) Corns and calluses are more likely to develop in people who have very prominent bony toes, thin skin, or deformities of the toes or feet which cause the skin to rub more easily inside shoes.

What's a Blister?

A blister is an area of raised skin with a watery liquid inside. Blisters form on hands and feet from rubbing and pressure, but they form a lot more quickly than calluses. You can get blisters on your feet the same day you wear uncomfortable or poor-fitting shoes. You can get blisters on your hands if you forget to wear protective gloves when you're using a hammer, a shovel, or even when you're riding your bike.

Areas on your body that form blisters and continue to be rubbed every day (like your feet because of the same pair of uncomfortable shoes you always wear to school) may go on to form calluses.

Treatment of Calluses

There are numerous over the counter treatments for corns and calluses. Some of these remedies have an acid in them that burn the callous off. Care should be taken when using these medications. If used incorrectly they can cause a chemical burn to the skin. Additionally these remedies are only temporary because the source of the pressure has not been alleviated.

Professional treatment consists of using a special shoe insert called a functional orthotic that corrects foot function. In certain instances surgery may be recommended.

Surgery is directed at correcting the alignment of the offending bone. Cutting out the callous will only make the condition worse if the underling boney problem is not corrected. Metatarsal surgery is discussed in another section.

Treatment of Corns

Home treatment should be directed at reducing the pressure between the toes with cotton or a foam cushion and using an antibiotic ointment to reduce the risk of infection. Over the counter corn removers should never be used in this area because of the risk of increased damage to the skin resulting in infection.

Corns are usually found on or between toes. They have an inner core that can be soft or hard. A soft corn looks like an open sore.

The use of "corn plasters" in those who are at risk or have frail skin are very likely to cause an ulcer (a breakdown of the skin) which could become infected and it the circulation is poor, an amputation is a possibility.

When To Call A Professional

Make an appointment to see your family doctor, orthopedic surgeon or podiatrist if you have painful corns or calluses.

If you have diabetes or poor circulation, examine your feet every day. For the best view, use a mirror to inspect the soles of your feet and the skin folds between your toes. If you see an area of redness, swelling, bleeding, blisters or any other problem, call your doctor promptly

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