Corns and calluses are two common skin conditions that many people experience on their feet.
While both are thickened areas of skin that form in response to friction or pressure, they are distinct in appearance, cause, and treatment. Understanding the differences between corns and calluses can help you manage and prevent them more effectively, and ensure that you seek the appropriate treatment if needed.
A callus is a broad, thickened area of skin that typically forms on the bottom of the foot, especially the heel or ball of the foot, as well as on the hands. Calluses develop when the skin responds to repeated friction or pressure, such as from wearing tight shoes or walking barefoot on hard surfaces. They usually cover a larger surface area and are not painful, but in some cases, they can cause discomfort if they become very thick or dry. Calluses tend to have a uniform appearance, with the skin feeling rough and tough to the touch.
In contrast, a corn is a more localized, concentrated thickening of the skin that often forms on the top or sides of the toes. Corns are usually smaller than calluses and have a hard center surrounded by inflamed skin. They develop in response to focused pressure, often from wearing shoes that are too tight or that rub against certain areas of the toes. Corns can be hard or soft. Hard corns form on bony areas like the tops of toes, while soft corns, which are whitish and rubbery, typically form between the toes where moisture can accumulate. Unlike calluses, corns are often painful when pressed, particularly if they develop over a bony prominence.
Both corns and calluses result from the body’s natural defense mechanism against repeated irritation, but they require different approaches for treatment. For calluses, the primary goal is to reduce the friction or pressure that is causing them. This can be done by wearing properly fitted, cushioned shoes, using custom orthotics, and moisturizing the skin regularly to prevent excessive thickening. Gently exfoliating the callus with a pumice stone or foot file can also help manage its size and thickness.
For corns, treatment focuses on relieving the pressure causing the corn and softening the thickened skin. Over-the-counter corn pads can help cushion the area and reduce discomfort, but it’s important to avoid using medicated corn pads without consulting a podiatrist, as these can sometimes cause skin irritation or damage. Softening the corn with warm water and then gently filing it down can help relieve pressure. In more severe or painful cases, a podiatrist may need to carefully remove the corn with specialized instruments. It’s also important to address any underlying issues, such as shoe fit, that may be contributing to the problem.
Preventing both corns and calluses involves wearing shoes that fit properly and provide adequate support, especially in areas that are prone to friction or pressure. Regular foot care, such as moisturizing the feet and using protective pads or insoles, can also help reduce the likelihood of developing these conditions.
In conclusion, while corns and calluses may seem similar, they differ in terms of their size, location, and level of discomfort. Calluses are larger, painless areas of thick skin that develop in response to friction, while corns are smaller, painful spots that form due to focused pressure. If you are experiencing pain from a corn or are concerned about thickened skin on your feet, a podiatrist can help diagnose the issue and recommend appropriate treatment to keep your feet healthy and comfortable.
