What are calluses and corns?
Areas of thick, hard skin, commonly found on the hands or feet, are called corns and calluses. When something presses or rubs against the skin over time, they may develop.
The sides of the toes and the bottoms of the feet are typically affected by corns. A corn resembles a small bump with a hard center and skin irritation all around it. Corns frequently cause pain.
On the fingers, toes, feet, and hands, calluses frequently develop. They resemble thick, scaly, and occasionally bumpy skin. Typically, calluses don’t hurt.
What causes calluses and corns?
You may develop corns and calluses if you:
- Wearing footwear that is too small or large
- Walking with barefoot
- Not wearing socks
- Using tools (like a hammer or rake) or sports equipment (like a tennis racket) that can rub against the skin
You may be more prone to developing corns or calluses if you are experiencing other foot issues. For instance, your shoes may rub against a bunion, a bony growth at the base of your big toe. A corn or callus may result from this.
Is a test for corns and calluses available?
No. There isn’t a test. However, by looking at your skin, your doctor or nurse can determine whether you have a corn or callus. You might require an X-ray if your doctor or nurse suspects that the bones in your feet are the source of your corns or calluses.
What can I do to get rid of corns and calluses on my own?
Yes. You can:
- Wear socks and shoes that fit you correctly. Calluses and corns can be brought on by wearing tight shoes or high heels.
- Avoid wearing shoes without socks or going barefoot.
- To avoid rubbing, place special pads inside your shoes.
Should I visit a physician or a nurse?
Maybe. Visit a doctor or nurse if you believe you have a corn or callus and it is hurting. They can determine whether it needs to be treated if you have a corn, callus, or something else (like a wart).
Read more: All you need to know about warts ≡ Know99
How are calluses and corns handled?
Your doctor can treat a corn or callus if it hurts or won’t go away on its own. The top layers of skin on the corn or callus are typically removed as part of treatment, and a patch containing medicine is then applied. More skin can be removed because the patch will make the skin softer. The doctor can re-trim the skin and replace the patch after it has been in place for two to three days. Repeat this procedure until the problem area is eliminated.
Without a prescription, you can purchase the medication-filled patches if you prefer to take care of yourself. Your doctor can then instruct you on when and how to change the patch on your own. However, if you have diabetes or another condition that could harm your feet’s nerves, you shouldn’t use this treatment.
Your doctor might suggest seeing a “podiatrist” if your corns or calluses are severe or keep returning. To help cushion and protect your feet, a podiatrist can fit you with a special shoe insert called a “orthotic.”
Can calluses and corns be avoided?
Sometimes. Avoid wearing shoes that press or rub against your feet or toes to reduce your risk of developing corns or calluses. When using tools that could cause your skin to rub, you can also put on gloves to protect your hands (such as while gardening).