Tuesday, 20 May 2025 00:00

Corns or Calluses?

Corns are thick, hardened areas of skin that develop on the feet due to repeated pressure or friction, often from wearing tight shoes or abnormal foot mechanics. Unlike callouses, which are broader and form on weight-bearing areas like the soles, corns are smaller, have a hard center, and typically develop on toes or between them. They can feel like you are walking on a pebble and may become painful, especially when wearing shoes. Common symptoms include a hard or raised bump, tenderness, and soreness in the affected area. Corns may be surrounded by inflamed skin and can sometimes lead to infection if not properly treated. A podiatrist can determine the cause of the corns and recommend appropriate treatment. Options include safe removal of the corn, padding to reduce pressure, custom orthotics to improve foot alignment, and guidance on proper footwear. Addressing the root cause helps prevent recurrence. If you are experiencing this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Richard T. Bauer of Summit Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

  • Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
  • Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
  • Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Latham, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Everything You Need to Know About Corns

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