Corns and calluses are areas of thickened skin that develop as a protective response to repeated pressure or friction. While often harmless, they can become painful and interfere with walking or wearing shoes - especially in individuals with underlying foot deformities or diabetes.
Corns typically form over bony areas like toe joints, while calluses are broader and often appear on the soles of the feet. Common triggers include tight or ill-fitting shoes, high-heeled footwear, abnormal foot mechanics (like hammertoes or bunions), and activities that place repeated stress on the feet.
Corns appear as small, hard or soft circular lesions, often surrounded by inflamed skin. Calluses are flatter, more diffuse areas of thickened skin, commonly found on the heel or ball of the foot. Your foot specialist will assess your footwear, foot structure, and walking pattern to determine the underlying cause. Diagnosis is clinical, and treatment plans are tailored to relieve pressure and reduce recurrence.
