Corns and Calluses: What They Mean and How to Prevent Them

You notice a rough patch on your toe or a thickened area under your foot that just won’t go away. It’s not exactly painful — at least not yet — but it’s definitely uncomfortable.

Those hardened spots are likely corns or calluses, and while they may seem harmless, they’re actually your skin’s way of protecting itself from pressure and friction. Left untreated, however, they can cause pain, inflammation, and even open sores — especially if you have diabetes or circulation issues.

At Restore Foot & Ankle Specialists, we treat corns and calluses every day and help patients keep their feet smooth, pain-free, and healthy. Here’s everything you need to know about why these thickened areas form, how to prevent them, and when it’s time to see a podiatrist.

What Are Corns and Calluses?

Both corns and calluses are areas of thickened, hardened skin that develop in response to repeated friction or pressure. They’re part of your body’s natural defense mechanism to protect underlying tissue — but sometimes that protection comes at a cost.

Although they’re often mentioned together, corns and calluses are slightly different:

• Calluses are larger, broader areas of thick skin that usually appear on the bottom of the feet — particularly the heel, ball of the foot, or along the sides. They typically aren’t painful but can become uncomfortable when thickened.

• Corns are smaller, deeper, and often more painful. They usually develop on the tops or sides of toes, especially where shoes rub or toes press against each other.

In simple terms:
Calluses = flat and wide
Corns = small and focused (often painful)

Common Causes of Corns and Calluses

Corns and calluses are signs that your feet are dealing with too much friction, pressure, or misalignment.

Typical Causes Include:

• Poorly fitting shoes — especially those that are too tight or have narrow toe boxes.

• High heels — which shift weight forward and increase pressure on the forefoot.

• Foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, or claw toes.

• Abnormal gait or foot structure, like flat feet or high arches, that create uneven pressure points.

• Repetitive activities (running, walking, standing for long hours).

• Lack of moisture or dry skin, which makes friction worse.

• Not wearing socks or wearing thin, non-cushioned socks.

Corns and calluses can affect anyone — but people with diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, or poor circulation need to be especially cautious. Even minor thickened skin can become an entry point for infection.

Common Symptoms

You may have corns or calluses if you notice:

• Rough, hardened, or thickened skin patches

• Yellowish or grayish discoloration

• Raised, circular spots (corns)

• Tenderness or pain when walking or wearing shoes

• Cracks or fissures in the skin (especially on heels)

Pain often increases when pressure is applied — for example, when you put on tight shoes or stand for long periods.

Types of Corns

There are a few distinct types of corns that your podiatrist can help identify:

1. Hard corns (Heloma durum): Firm, dense, and usually appear on the tops of toes or outer edges of the little toe.

2. Soft corns (Heloma molle): White and rubbery, found between toes where moisture accumulates.

3. Seed corns: Tiny, discrete corns that form on the bottom of the foot and can be quite painful.

Each type requires a slightly different approach to treatment.

How Podiatrists Treat Corns and Calluses

While over-the-counter remedies exist, professional treatment ensures your feet are cared for safely — especially if you have underlying health concerns.

1. Professional Debridement (Safe Removal)

A podiatrist can gently remove thickened skin using sterile instruments — providing immediate relief without damaging healthy tissue. (Never attempt to cut or shave them yourself!)

2. Padding and Pressure Relief

Custom pads or toe separators can protect affected areas from friction and prevent recurrence.

3. Custom Orthotics

For patients with foot deformities or gait imbalances, custom orthotic inserts can redistribute pressure evenly and stop new corns or calluses from forming.

4. Proper Footwear Recommendations

Your podiatrist may suggest shoes with a wider toe box, extra depth, and soft insoles to reduce rubbing and pressure points.

5. Moisturizing and Skin Care

Using urea-based or alpha hydroxy acid creams softens callused skin and helps prevent recurrence.

6. Addressing Underlying Issues

If bunions, hammertoes, or other structural deformities are contributing to pressure buildup, your podiatrist may discuss corrective options — from conservative braces to surgical correction.

What Not to Do at Home

Many patients try home remedies before visiting a podiatrist — but some can do more harm than good. Avoid:

• Cutting corns or calluses yourself

• Using medicated “corn remover” pads with salicylic acid (can burn healthy skin)

• Ignoring pain or inflammation — it could indicate infection or deeper damage

Always consult a podiatrist before treating foot lesions, especially if you have diabetes or nerve issues.

How to Prevent Corns and Calluses

The best treatment is prevention. Here are practical steps to keep your feet soft, smooth, and comfortable:

• Wear properly fitted shoes with plenty of room for your toes.

• Choose cushioned socks that reduce friction.

• Moisturize your feet daily to keep skin soft.

• Use protective pads or inserts if certain shoes rub.

• Avoid prolonged standing or walking in unsupportive footwear.

• Schedule regular foot exams — especially if you have diabetes or flat feet.

When to See a Podiatrist

It’s time to visit a podiatrist if you experience:

• Persistent pain or tenderness

• Recurrent or worsening corns or calluses

• Bleeding, cracks, or open sores

• Signs of infection (redness, warmth, drainage)

• Numbness or tingling in your feet

Your podiatrist can identify the root cause and recommend a customized treatment plan that provides lasting relief.

The Bottom Line

Corns and calluses may be common, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with them. They’re often a sign that your shoes, gait, or foot structure are putting too much stress on certain areas — and professional care can fix both the symptoms and the source.

At Restore Foot & Ankle Specialists, we offer expert care for corns, calluses, and all foot health concerns. Whether you need gentle removal, custom orthotics, or long-term prevention strategies, our team is here to help you step comfortably again. Contact our office today with Dr. Gireesh Reddy or Dr. Sirisha Pokala by calling (469) 573-3427 or by booking an appointment online.