Corns and calluses
Key points
- Corns and calluses are thickened layers of skin caused by repeated pressure or friction.
- Corns and calluses are caused by pressure or friction on skin.
- Your health care provider will make the diagnosis after observing the skin.
- Usually, preventing friction is the only treatment needed.
Alternative names
Calluses and corns
Definition
Corns and calluses are thickened layers of skin caused by repeated pressure or friction.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Corns and calluses are caused by pressure or friction on skin. A corn is thickened skin on the top or side of a toe, usually from shoes that do not fit properly. A callus is thickened skin on your hands or the soles of your feet.
The thickening of the skin is a protective reaction. For example, farmers and rowers get callused hands that prevent them from getting painful blisters. People with bunions often develop a callus over the bunion because it rubs against the shoe.
Neither corns nor calluses are serious conditions.
Symptoms
- Thick and hardened skin
- May be flaky and dry
- Located on hands, feet, or other areas that may be rubbed or pressured
Signs and tests
Your health care provider will make the diagnosis after observing the skin. In most cases tests are not necessary.
Treatment
Usually, preventing friction is the only treatment needed. If a corn is the result of a poor-fitting shoe, changing to shoes that fit properly will usually eliminate the corn within a couple of weeks. Until then, protect the skin with donut-shaped corn pads, available in pharmacies. If desired, use a pumice stone to gently wear down the corn.
Calluses on the hands can be treated by wearing gloves during activities that cause friction, such as gardening and weight lifting.
If an infection or ulcer occurs in an area of a callus or corn, unhealthy tissue may need to be removed by a health care provider and treatment with antibiotics may be necessary.
Calluses often reflect undue pressure placed on the skin because of an underlying problem such as bunions. Proper treatment of any underlying condition should prevent the calluses from returning.
Expectations (prognosis)
Corns and calluses are rarely serious. If treated properly, they should improve without causing long-term problems.
Complications
Complications of corns and calluses are rare. People with diabetes are prone to ulcers and infections and should regularly examine their feet to identify any problems right away. Such foot injuries need medical attention.
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.