Difference Between Corns and Calluses

What is a Foot Corn?

A foot corn is a small, circular area of thickened skin that develops as a result of excessive pressure or friction. Typically found on the tops or sides of toes and sometimes on the soles, corns are characterized by a hard center surrounded by inflamed skin. Unlike calluses, which are usually larger and less defined, corns can be painful, especially when pressed.

Corns often develop in response to ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or repetitive motion. They act as a natural defense mechanism, protecting the skin from irritation, but if left untreated, they can cause significant discomfort and may require professional care.

What is a Callus?

A callus is a broad, thickened area of skin that forms in response to repeated friction, pressure, or irritation. Unlike corns, calluses are usually larger, flatter, and less defined in shape. They commonly develop on weight-bearing areas like the heels, balls of the feet, and palms of the hands.

Calluses are generally painless and serve as the skin’s natural way of protecting itself from blisters or injuries. They often result from activities like walking barefoot, using tools, or wearing shoes that rub against the skin. While not harmful, thick or untreated calluses can crack, leading to discomfort or infection. What is the Difference Between a Corn and a Callus?

What Causes Corns and Calluses?

Corns

Corns develop primarily due to focused pressure or friction on specific points of the foot, often over bony areas.

• Ill-fitting shoes

• Bony protrusions

• Repetitive friction

• Improper socks

Calluses

Calluses are caused by consistent friction or pressure over broader areas of skin. Unlike corns, they are not confined to bony prominences

• Walking Barefoot

• Weight-Bearing Activities

• Repetitive Use

• Flat Feet

• High Arches

How to Treat a Callus or Corn

Treating corns involves reducing the pressure or friction causing them, softening the hardened skin, and protecting the area to prevent further irritation. Depending on the severity, treatment options range from at-home remedies to professional medical care.

At-Home Treatments

• Feet Soaking-  Soak the affected area in warm, soapy water for 10–15 minutes to soften the corn and surrounding skin.
• Pumice stone- Gently rub the softened corn with a pumice stone to remove excess thickened skin. Avoid being too aggressive, as this can irritate the area.
• Moisturizing- Use a hydrating cream containing urea or salicylic acid to soften the corn over time.

Professional Medical Treatment 

• Debridement- A podiatrist can carefully trim the corn with sterile tools to remove hardened layers of skin safely.
• Custom Orthotics- Special insoles or inserts can redistribute pressure on the feet to prevent recurrence.
• Surgical intervention- In rare cases, surgery may be required to correct bone deformities causing persistent corns.

Different Types of Corns

Corns come in several distinct types, each with unique characteristics and causes. Understanding the differences can help in identifying and treating them effectively.

Hard Corns

The most common type appear as small, dense, circular areas of thickened skin surrounded by inflamed skin. They usually form on bony parts of the foot, such as the tops or sides of the toes, where persistent pressure or friction occurs. Tight-fitting shoes or foot deformities like hammertoes often contribute to their development. While they serve as a protective barrier, hard corns can become painful, especially when pressed or during walking.

Soft Corns

Differ in texture and appearance, being whitish, moist, and rubbery due to their location in areas prone to moisture buildup. They typically form between the toes, where skin-on-skin friction is common, often worsened by tight or poorly ventilated footwear. Unlike hard corns, soft corns remain pliable but can still cause discomfort and are more susceptible to infection if left untreated.

Seed Corns

The smallest and least common type. They appear as tiny, hard bumps on the soles of the feet, particularly in areas that bear weight. Seed corns are often caused by dry skin or repeated stress on specific pressure points. While generally painless, they can become tender if subjected to increased pressure or neglected for long periods.

Risk Factors

Several factors increase the likelihood of developing corns and calluses. These hardened patches of skin are often a result of repeated pressure or friction, but individual characteristics and lifestyle choices can make some people more susceptible.

• Ill-Fitting Footwear: Tight shoes compress toes, while loose shoes cause friction from excessive movement.
• High Heels: Concentrate pressure on the balls of the feet and squeeze the toes into narrow spaces.
• Foot Deformities: Conditions like bunions, hammertoes, or bony protrusions create points of increased pressure.
• Repetitive Activities: Sports, manual labor, or playing instruments can cause friction and pressure on specific areas.
• Walking Barefoot: Regular barefoot walking toughens the skin, leading to callus formation.
• Underlying Health Conditions: Arthritis, diabetes, or poor circulation alter pressure distribution and delay healing.
• Age: Older adults have thinner skin and more pronounced bones, increasing the likelihood of pressure points.

People Also Ask

How Do You Get Rid of Corns or Calluses?

Soak the area in warm water, gently file with a pumice stone, and apply a moisturizer with urea or salicylic acid. Use corn pads for cushioning or consult a podiatrist for professional treatment if necessary.

Do Calluses Turn into Corns?

No, calluses don’t turn into corns. Calluses are broader and painless, while corns are smaller, focused, and often painful. However, they may coexist if pressure continues.

How Can I Tell if I Have a Corn or a Callus?

Corns are small, circular, and painful, typically on bony areas. Calluses are larger, flatter, and painless, often on weight-bearing parts of the feet.

When to See a Doctor

While many corns and calluses can be managed at home, there are times when professional care is necessary. If you experience persistent pain, swelling, or redness, it may indicate an infection or an underlying issue requiring medical attention. Similarly, if a corn or callus bleeds, changes color, or does not improve with home treatments, it’s essential to consult a specialist. 

For individuals with diabetes, the stakes are even higher. Untreated corns and calluses can lead to complications like ulcers or infections, potentially contributing to peripheral neuropathy—a condition that damages nerves and reduces sensation in the feet. Regular professional care is critical to avoid severe issues and maintain foot health.

East Valley Podiatrist

At Red Mountain Footcare, we understand the unique challenges our patients face. Our team provides expert care for corns, calluses, and other foot conditions to keep your feet healthy and pain-free. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward protecting your foot health and overall well-being.