Foot problems - corns and calluses

A corn or callus is an area of hard, thickened skin on the foot that is formed in response to pressure or friction. They are part of the body’s defence system to protect the underlying tissues. If the cause of pressure is not relieved, calluses can become painful. If pressure becomes concentrated in a small area, a ‘hard’ corn may develop. A corn has a central core.

Common sites of corn and callus formation are the ball of the foot, under the big toe, the tips and the tops of toes. ‘Soft’ corns may develop between the toes, where the skin is moist from sweat or inadequate drying. Sometimes, the pressure of the corn or callus may produce inflammation, which can result in acute pain, swelling and redness.

Corns and calluses may be a sign that you have an underlying foot disorder, such as a joint that is out of alignment. This is why it is important to seek professional advice rather than attempt to treat calluses or corns yourself.

Symptoms
The symptoms of corns and calluses can include:

• Thickened patch of hard skin on the foot.
• Hard, small bump of skin that may have a central core.
• White and rubbery bumps of skin (‘soft’ corns, in between the toes).
• In some cases, the callus pushes into the foot, rather than spreading across the skin surface.
• Pain when pressure or friction is applied to the area.

• Elderly people - because ageing skin loses elasticity and fatty tissue.
• People who spend a lot of time standing up - because of the continuous weight-bearing pressure on their feet.
• People with feet that roll inwards (flat feet) - flat feet place excessive pressure on the ball of the foot beneath the big toe, and the inside of the heel.
• A person with foot complaints (such as a hammer toe, bunions or arthritis) - because a bony prominence can rub against the shoe or neighbouring toes.
• People who regularly wear shoes that are narrow, tight, ill-fitting or high-heeled .

• Investigation and treatment of the possible causes - for example, treatment for bunions.
• Professional reduction of the callus or corn to relieve pain.
• Customised padding on various areas of the foot to temporarily redistribute pressure, for example, you may need to wear little foam wedges between your toes.
• If needed, permanent inserts to wear inside your shoes (orthoses) to offer long term pressure relief.
• Advice on appropriate footwear.
• Advice on appropriate foot care, such as applying moisturiser daily.

• Foot care should be part of your daily routine. Look at and feel each foot for signs of injury including bruises, blisters, broken or cracked skin, hot or cold areas, corns and calluses, and discolouration. If your eyesight is poor get someone else to check your feet for you.
• If you find a cut or break in the skin, wash the area with warm salty water, apply an antiseptic and cover with a clean dressing.
• Avoid treating corns and calluses yourself. For example, don’t, scrape or cut the callus, or use any other over-the-counter corn and callus preparation.
• Whenever possible, wear padded socks and well-fitted shoes-avoiding non-breathable fabrics e.g. nylon stockings. Friction between the skin and shoes can make calluses more likely.

• Podiatrist
• Australian Podiatry Association (Vic) - to find a podiatrist in your local area call (03) 9866 5906

• A corn or callus is a patch of hard, thickened skin on the foot that is formed in response to pressure or friction.
• Corns and calluses may be signs that the person has some kind of underlying foot disorder, such as joint deformities or misalignments.
• Never try to treat corns and calluses yourself - seek advice from a podiatrist.

This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:


(Logo links to further information)