Corns and calluses are areas of thickened skin that develop on the feet in response to pressure, friction, or irritation. Despite the unsightly characteristics of these skin lesions, they are usually harmless. However, if ignored for long periods of time, corns and calluses have the ability to develop into skin ulcerations and infections.

Discover what corns and calluses are, what symptoms you should watch out for, and how Comprehensive Foot Specialists in Huntington, NY, diagnoses and treats corns and calluses with great care and expertise.

What are Corns and Calluses?

Corns and calluses are very similar, but are two separate conditions. They develop in the same manner, from pressure and friction occurring on the skin, but have certain elements that make them unique. Calluses generally appear on the heel or bottom of the foot, and commonly present as a thick, rough layer of skin that is rarely painful. Corns are typically smaller, have a hard center surrounded by inflamed skin, grow on the top and side portions of the toes, and can be significantly painful and uncomfortable when pressed. Symptoms for both corns and calluses include:

• A thick, rough area of skin
• A hardened, raised bump
• Tenderness or pain under the skin
• Flaky or dry skin in the affected area

What Corns and Calluses?

Corns and calluses are very common and can generate from:

• Improper footwear (i.e. tight or high-heeled shoes causing pressure)
• Shoes that are too loose (which causes friction)
• Walking barefoot
• Wearing shoes or sandals without socks
• Activities that increase friction on the skin

The most common cause of corns and calluses is wearing improper footwear, especially high-heeled shoes. Inappropriate footwear places a substantial amount of pressure on the toes, causing corns and calluses to form. Another common cause of corns and calluses is if the patient does not wear socks with their shoes, generating friction on the feet. These conditions can also easily occur for those who regularly walk barefoot. Patients with an existing foot condition, such as bunions or hammertoe, have a greatly increased risk of developing corns and calluses secondary to their altered biomechanics.

How are Corns and Calluses Diagnosed?

Corns and calluses are diagnosed in the office, based on appearance, symptoms, and predictable characteristics. The diagnosis of corns and calluses is determined through an examination of the appearance of the foot and lesion itself. In some cases, the doctor may take X-rays of the feet to further examine the underlying bone structure that could have caused the corns and calluses to develop. In addition, your doctor will study the way you walk and ask about your footwear for a comprehensive diagnosis.

How Comprehensive Foot Specialists Treat Corns and Calluses

Treatment varies from patient to patient and depends on the underlying cause of the skin lesion itself. With that being said, some topical over-the-counter products may be applied to soften and alleviate the thickness of the callus and/or corn. Orthotics have often been applied to off-load areas of high pressure. However, in some situations, the underlying cause needs surgical attention and is treated by shaving any bony abnormalities; reducing the amount of friction.

At Comprehensive Foot Specialists, we have the knowledge and skills needed to diagnose and treat all kinds of foot conditions, including corns and calluses. Our office is conveniently located in Huntington, NY, where you will be welcomed by our friendly staff and treated by our team of experts. Find out more about the services we provide and conditions we treat, and contact us to make an appointment today.