Corns/Calluses
Corns and calluses are areas of thickened, hardened skin on the feet that develop in response to repeated friction and pressure. Calluses typically form as broader, flatter patches under weight-bearing areas such as the balls of the feet or heels. Corns are more localised, often with a central core, and appear on or between toes or over bony prominences.
Understanding Corns & Calluses
When our body weight is carried first on the heel and then the ball of the foot while standing or walking, some areas of skin thicken as a protective response to excessive pressure, friction against shoes, bones or the ground. Some people are more prone due to foot structure, gait, or footwear.
(Callus is often a sign of underlying pressure or irritation — for example from a bony deformity, abnormal walking pattern or poorly-fitting shoes.)
Ready to experience the benefits of personalized foot care? Schedule a consultation with our experienced chiropodists today.
Our Approach
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Comprehensive Evaluation
We begin with a thorough foot exam to identify the location, type and cause of the corn or callus. We assess shoe fit, foot biomechanics, pressure distribution, gait and any foot-structure abnormalities so we can tailor treatment and reduce recurrence.
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Conservative Treatments
- Removal of hardened skin (debridement) under sterile conditions to relieve pressure and pain.
- Padding, strapping or silicone wedges to redistribute pressure and relieve hotspots beneath toes or balls of feet.
- Advice on footwear: switching to shoes with adequate toe-space, cushioning and correct support.
- Emollient creams and skin care to restore elasticity and protect against re-thickening of skin.
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Corrective & Preventive Measures
- Custom or prefabricated orthotic inserts to off-load areas of excessive pressure and improve foot alignment.
- Addressing underlying foot or toe deformities through exercises, physical therapy or referral if needed.
- Education on foot hygiene, regular inspections (especially if you have diabetes or reduced sensation) and avoiding self-treatment with blades or acids at home.
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Advanced or Ongoing Care
For persistent, recurrent or complex cases (for example in patients with diabetes, peripheral vascular disease or severe foot deformity) we may suggest more advanced strategies: deeper off-loading devices, referral to a surgical podiatrist, or ongoing pressure monitoring.
What Causes the Problem?
- Foot structure or biomechanical abnormalities (such as bunions, hammertoes, pronation) that increase pressure in certain areas.
- Poorly-fitting, narrow, or high-heeled shoes that exert friction on toes or soles.
- Repetitive stress on a particular region of the foot (due to standing long hours, walking, sports).
- Loss of natural fatty padding under the foot (especially in older adults) so that skin bears more load.
- Neglecting foot care: dry or cracked skin, un-trimmed nails or unchecked deformities can increase risk.
