What Is the Difference Between a Corn and a Callus?

If you’ve ever noticed thick, hardened skin on your feet, you may have wondered whether you’re dealing with a corn or a callus. While they may seem similar, there are key differences between the two. At QCity Podiatry, we want to help you understand these common foot conditions and how to manage them effectively. Knowing what causes them, how to treat them, and when to seek professional help can keep your feet healthy and pain-free.

What Is a Corn?

A corn is a small, circular area of thickened skin that typically develops due to repeated friction or pressure. Corns often form on the tops or sides of toes, where shoes may rub, causing irritation. They tend to have a hard centre and can be pretty painful, mainly when applying pressure.

Corns are classified into different types:

• Hard corns: These appear as dense, thickened patches of skin, usually found on bony areas of the foot, such as the tops of toes or areas that frequently experience shoe pressure.
• Soft corns: These develop in moist areas, such as between the toes, and have a rubbery, softer texture due to trapped moisture.
• Seed corns: These tiny corns often form on the bottom of the foot and may cause discomfort when walking.

What Is a Callus?

On the other hand, a callus is a larger, more diffused area of thickened skin that forms as a response to repeated friction and pressure. Unlike corns, calluses usually develop on weight-bearing areas of the foot, such as the soles, heels, or balls of the feet. Calluses are less painful than corns but can still cause discomfort if they become too thick or cracked.

Unlike corns, calluses don’t have a central core. Instead, they spread out over a larger area, creating a protective layer of thick skin. While they can be unsightly, calluses serve an essential function by shielding underlying skin from further damage. However, if left untreated, they can crack, leading to pain and potential infection.

Causes and Risk Factors

Both corns and calluses develop as a result of excessive pressure or friction. Common causes include:

• Ill-fitting shoes: Tight or narrow shoes can create friction, leading to corns, while loose shoes can cause excessive rubbing, contributing to calluses.
• High heels: High-heeled shoes shift weight to the front of the foot, increasing pressure on the ball of the foot and leading to callus formation.
• Walking barefoot frequently: Walking barefoot, especially on rough surfaces, can cause the skin to thicken in response, leading to calluses.
• Abnormal foot structure or gait issues: Conditions like hammertoes, bunions, or flat feet can cause uneven pressure distribution, leading to corns and calluses.
• Repeated activities: Jobs or activities that involve a lot of standing, walking, or running can increase the likelihood of developing calluses and corns.

Treatment and Prevention

The good news is that corns and calluses can often be managed with proper foot care. Here are some tips for treatment and prevention:

• Wear well-fitted shoes: Ensure your footwear provides ample room for your toes and good arch support. Shoes that are too tight can lead to corns, while too much movement inside the shoe can cause calluses.
• Use protective padding: Corn pads, toe separators, or cushioned insoles can help reduce pressure and prevent further friction.
• Moisturize regularly: A good foot cream can help keep your feet hydrated and prevent excessive skin buildup, reducing the likelihood of calluses.
• Gently exfoliate: After bathing, a pumice stone or foot file can help remove thickened skin and prevent corns and calluses from worsening.
• Choose the right socks: Moisture-wicking, well-cushioned socks can help reduce friction and protect your feet.
• Soak your feet: Regular foot soaks in warm water with Epsom salt can soften the skin, making it easier to remove thickened areas.
• Avoid self-removal: Cutting or shaving corns and calluses at home can lead to infections. Instead, seek professional treatment.

When to See a Podiatrist

While many corns and calluses can be managed with at-home care, there are certain situations where professional treatment is necessary. You should visit a podiatrist if:

• You experience persistent pain or discomfort that does not improve with self-care.
• The corn or callus becomes inflamed, red, or shows signs of infection.
• You have underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or poor circulation, which increase the risk of complications.
• The thickened skin affects your ability to walk comfortably.
• You notice an unusual change in the affected area’s shape, size, or colour.

At QCity Podiatry, we provide expert diagnosis and tailored treatment plans to keep your feet healthy and pain-free. We use gentle, effective methods to remove corns and calluses safely while addressing any underlying foot issues that may contribute to their formation.