What are Corns and Calluses?

Corns and calluses are hardening or thickening of the skin due to friction or rubbing. A corn is different from a callus in that it has a central core of hard material. The rubbing causes the skin to produce a layer of protective skin (a callus or a corn). Corns happen on top or between the toes while calluses happen on the bottom of the feet.

Causes

Improper fitting shoes are a leading cause of corns. Toe deformities, such as hammertoe, mallet toe, or claw toe also can lead to corns. Calluses typically develop under a metatarsal head (ball of the foot) due to abnormal structure or function of the foot.

Symptoms

• Sharp shooting pain
• Dull aching soreness
• Thick skin
• Swelling

Diagnosis

Your podiatrist can easily diagnose them clinically along with complete history of your symptoms. Sometimes you may be required to get x-rays to help determine the treatment protocol.