What Are Corns & Calluses?

What is a callus?

Calluses are a normal diffuse thickening of the skin of the foot in response to generalised pressure on the skin. If they are not uncomfortable they are best left alone as they do offer some protection. Gentle filing of any rough areas and regular application of a foot moisturising cream can help to keep the skin smooth. If uncomfortable or painful you can book a routine appointment with me to have them removed.

What is a corn?

Corns are a very localised thickening of the skin on the foot, often on the plantar, or bottom, surface of the foot. They form a small hard lump like a stone which digs into the soft tissues when pressure is applied, often causing significant pain and limiting weight bearing activity. They can be caused by tight shoes, bone spurs under the skin, or high peak pressure in an area of the foot due to altered biomechanics in walking. They usually cannot be filed away as they are beneath the skin. Fortunately they can be painlessly removed during a routine foot care appointment and your feet will feel much better for it!

How can I prevent them coming back?

If they are persistent despite routine treatment, corns can often be prevented from coming back by changing footwear or by wearing a specialised orthotic insole inside the shoe designed to offload the high pressure area. At Active we use a Pressure Plate to analyse pressures under the feet which may be leading to corn formation and with that information we can design a specialised insole or orthotic, often dispensed straight away, which can relieve pressure on the area and reduce the risk of corns occurring.