Corns and calluses are not the same thing.

‍Corns are smaller and deeper than calluses and have a hard center surrounded by swollen skin. They can be painful when pressed. Hard corns often form on the top of the toes or the outer edge of the small toe. Soft corns tend to form between the toes.

Calluses are rarely painful and tend to develop on pressure spots, such as the heels, the balls of the feet, the palms and the knees. They may vary in size and shape and are often larger than corn.

Identifying Corns and Calluses

To accurately differentiate between corns and calluses, it's essential to understand their distinguishing features in terms of appearance and feel. Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you recognize whether a skin condition is a corn or a callus.

Appearance and Feel

Corns:

Shape: Corns typically have a small, circular or oval shape with a raised center, resembling a tiny bump or cone.

Texture: The skin on corns is usually thick, hardened, and rough to the touch.

Color: Corns often appear yellowish or grayish in color.

Calluses:

Shape: Calluses are generally larger and have a flattened, more diffuse shape, covering a broader surface area of the skin.

Texture: The texture of calluses is smoother and less rough compared to corns.

Color: Calluses may have a slightly yellowish or light brownish coloration.

Tips for Recognizing Corns and Calluses

1. Pay attention to the location: 

Corns are commonly found on the tops and sides of toes, particularly over bony prominences, as well as between the toes. Calluses, on the other hand, tend to form on weight-bearing areas, such as the heels, balls of the feet, and the soles.

2. Observe the shape and size: 

Corns are usually smaller and more localized, while calluses cover a larger surface area and have a more general shape.

3. Consider the level of discomfort: 

Corns are often more painful than calluses due to the pressure on the raised center. Calluses, while thickened, are typically less sensitive to touch.

4. Check for defined borders: 

Corns usually have distinct borders, making them easier to distinguish from the surrounding healthy skin. Calluses may have less defined edges.

What are the different types of corns?

There are several types of corns:

1. Hard corns: These are small, hard dense areas of skin usually within a larger area of thickened skin. Hard corns usually form on the top of your toes — areas where there’s bone pressure against your skin.
2. Soft corns: These corns are whitish/gray and have a softer, rubbery texture. Soft corn appears between your toes.
3. Seed corns: These corns are small and usually form on the bottom of your feet.

What causes corns and calluses?

Corns and calluses have many of the same causes. These include:

1. Shoes that don’t fit properly. This is the most common cause of corns on the top of your feet. Shoes that are too tight or have areas that rub against your skin cause shearing, friction and pressure. People who frequently wear high-heeled shoes often develop calluses on the balls of their feet from the downward pressure on this area when walking.
2. Standing, walking or running for long periods of time.
3. Physical hobbies, sports activities or work that puts pressure on your feet and causes repeated friction on an area of skin on your hands or fingers.
4. Going barefoot.
5. Not wearing socks with footwear.
6. Having socks or shoe linings that slip and bunch up under your feet while in shoes.
7. Walking with improper posture. Walking too heavily on the inner or outer edge of your foot.
8. Structural foot deformities or changes to the shape of your foot (hammertoes, tailor’s bunions, bunions or deformities from birth).

What are the complications of having corns and calluses?

Untreated or unsuccessfully treated corns and calluses might grow larger until you fix what caused them to develop in the first place. Corns or calluses can cause infections. This can be painful and make walking difficult. You may need antibiotics or even surgical treatment.

Treating Corns and Calluses

Managing corns and calluses involves various approaches, from over-the-counter remedies to seeking professional medical help. Here are some effective treatment strategies:

1. Over-the-Counter Remedies

Corn Pads: Corn pads, also known as corn cushions or plasters, are adhesive pads specifically designed to protect corns from friction and pressure. These pads contain a soft cushioning material that helps relieve discomfort and prevent further irritation.

2. Medicated Patches

Medicated patches are available at pharmacies, often containing salicylic acid or similar compounds that aid in softening and loosening the thickened skin of corns and calluses. 

3. Soaking and Exfoliation

Soaking the Feet: Soaking the feet in warm, soapy water for about 10-15 minutes can help soften the corns and calluses. This process reduces their hardness, making it easier to exfoliate the affected areas.

Exfoliating the Skin: After soaking, gently use a pumice stone or foot file to exfoliate the thickened skin. Be cautious not to over-exfoliate or remove too much skin, as it may cause irritation or injury.

4. Footwear Modifications

Wear Well-Fitting Shoes: Look for shoes that fit properly and provide adequate room for your toes. Shoes that are too tight can cause friction and pressure, exacerbating corns and calluses. If you have concerns or specific requirements, consulting with a clinician, podiatrist or footwear specialist can help you find the most suitable shoes for your needs. 

Seeking Professional Medical Help

You should see your healthcare provider if:

1. Persistent Pain and Discomfort: If corns or calluses continue to cause pain, discomfort, or interfere with daily activities, it's advisable to seek professional help. Podiatrists or foot specialists can provide tailored treatment options. Contact us today to get the relief you’ve always wanted from our expert. You may reach us in Bethesda Maryland to schedule an appointment.
2. Diabetic Patients: Diabetic individuals should avoid self-treating corns and calluses, as their condition requires specialized care to prevent complications. A healthcare professional experienced in diabetic foot care should manage any foot concerns. Remember, it's essential to avoid cutting or shaving corns and calluses at home, as this may lead to infection or injury. Instead, opt for these safer treatment methods and consider seeking professional assistance for severe cases or underlying health conditions. By taking appropriate measures, you can effectively manage corns and calluses and promote foot health.

Preventing Corns and Calluses

While treating existing corns and calluses is essential, taking preventive measures is equally crucial to avoid their recurrence. Here are some preventive strategies to promote healthy and comfortable feet:

1. Wear shoes that are comfortable and fit well. Shoes should support your feet, be well-cushioned and have shock-absorbing soles. The toe area of shoes should have enough length and width so your toes aren’t rubbing against the shoe or other toes. This would also mean avoiding high heeled narrow toed shoes that push your toes forward causing them to rub against the shoe or each other. Avoid hard soled or leather soled shoes unless they have enough padding to cushion your feet.
2. Wear socks with your footwear. Make sure socks are snug enough that they don’t bunch up under your feet.
3. Use cushioned or padded insoles. If you had corns or calluses in the past, you may want to ask your healthcare provider about customized insoles. These inserts can even out weight-bearing forces on the bottom of your foot to prevent calluses from forming. Also, use lamb’s wool not cotton between your toes to relieve friction and soften corns.
4. Wear gloves when you’re doing manual labor or working with heavy or rough materials that can damage the skin on your hands or fingers.
5. Inspect your feet daily and keep them clean. Wash your feet in warm, soapy water, dry them and apply a moisturizing foot cream. This helps keep your skin soft and supple.
6. In addition, keep your toenails trimmed, don’t walk barefoot and apply a daily foot powder to keep your feet dry if you have sweaty feet.

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