Corns & Calluses 101: What You Need to Know

Corns and calluses may seem like minor nuisances, but for some, they can be very painful and seriously impact one's day.

These hardened patches of skin, known as “hyperkeratosis”, develop in response to repeated friction or pressure.

A corn is a defined area of hyperkeratosis resulting from localised pressure.

Whereas, a callus is a broad thickening of the skin over a larger area, often found on weight-bearing areas like the soles of the feet.

Types of Corns

Five different types of corns can develop on the feet:

Hard Corns (Heloma Durum): Are typically found on the tops of toes or under the ball of the foot. Hard corns develop due to pressure from shoes or abnormal foot mechanics.

Soft Corns (Heloma Molle): These corns develop between the toes where moisture and friction combine, causing the skin to soften. They are often a result of foot biomechanics, foot deformity and/or tight footwear.

Seed Corns (Heloma Millare): Are tiny lesions or small corns that typically develop on the surface of the skin. They are often associated with dry skin conditions.

Neurovascular Corns (Intractable Plantar Keratosis): Unlike other corns, IPKs are deeper and more painful due to their location (on the bottom of the foot) and involvement of underlying nerves and blood vessels. Smokers are more prone to developing these painful lesions.

Durlacher (Listers) Corns: These appear on the outer edge of the little toenail and are often mistaken for an extension of the nail itself!

Complications

For those with diabetes or peripheral neuropathy, a corn or callus can precede an ulcer, which can lead to catastrophic consequences such as infection or amputation.

In these cases, early treatment of corns and callus can prevent serious complications and improve overall foot health and mobility.

At Home Treatments

While it may be tempting to treat corns and calluses at home with corn pads or razor blades, self-treatment without prior assessment from a podiatrist can be unsafe, especially for those with diabetes or neurovascular issues.

Medicated corn pads can lead to ulceration and even amputation in someone with decreased neurovascular function in their feet. They can be dangerous and are ineffective in the long-term management of preventing corns. So please do not use them!

How A Podiatrist Can Help

Podiatrists play a crucial role in managing corns and calluses. This is a condition we see every day.

Because the underlying cause of corns/calluses is pressure or friction, the only effective way to manage hyperkeratosis is to address underlying biomechanical and footwear issues.

Off-loading options such as well-fitted footwear, sleeves, pads, wedges, or orthotics can help redistribute pressure and alleviate discomfort.

Additionally, expert debridement performed by your podiatrist ensures the safe removal of thickened skin without causing further harm.

If it is safe to do so, your podiatrist will give you tips on how to manage corns/calluses yourself at home.

Understanding how corns and calluses develop helps to manage this condition effectively.

With proper assessment, treatment, and preventive measures, it is possible to alleviate discomfort and maintain healthy, pain-free feet. So pop in and see your local podiatrist today!