Calluses, which typically develop on the ball or heel of the foot, are composed of hardened patches of dead skin cells. The skin on the sole of the foot is ordinarily about forty times thicker than skin anywhere else on the body, but a callus can double this normal thickness. A protective callus layer naturally develops to guard against excessive pressure and chafing. Calluses can develop from wearing poorly fitted shoes and from walking on hard surfaces. Treatment involves relieving the pressure on the skin, usually by modifying the shoe. Pads to relieve the pressure are also helpful, but they must be positioned carefully. After soaking your feet to soften the calluses or after a bath or shower when the skin is softer, a pumice stone or callus file can be used to remove some of the dead skin and reduce some of the pain and pressure from a thick callus. If conservative measures fail to provide relief, surgery may be necessary to relieve the pressure that causes the callus.
A corn is a highly concentrated callus that occurs at a pressure point, such as the top of the toe or under a toe joint. Corns are caused by a great deal of pressure or friction on the toes, usually from poorly fitted shoes or high heels. Often the site for corns is on the outside of the big or baby toes, since these are the points where pressure occurs.
Severe or persistent corns should be treated by a doctor. Persons with diabetes, atherosclerosis or other circulatory diseases should never treat a corn themselves because of the risk of infection.
