Understanding the Differences Between Corns and Calluses

Corns and calluses are among the most common pesky foot problems, but don’t let their commonality fool you into thinking they’re no big deal.

Dr. Matthew Cerniglia at Ankle and Foot Institute of Texas knows how corns and calluses can lead to a slew of foot problems. Here, he explains the differences between the two issues, why they cause a shuffle in your step, and, most importantly, how to deal with them.

What are corns and calluses?

Corns and calluses are similar foot conditions, so they’re easy to confuse. While their differences are subtle, knowing which is which matters when it comes to treating them. 

Corns

Corns are small, circular lumps of hard skin that develop on the top, side, or ends of the toes. They can be hard or soft and usually stem from pressure or friction. 

Hard corns usually form on the outside of the little toe or the top of the toes, while soft corns develop between the toes due to the pinching effect of tight shoes.

Calluses

Calluses are thickened, dry skin patches that can appear anywhere there’s repeated friction. They’re larger than corns and don’t have the hard center that distinguishes corns.

Calluses are the skin’s way of protecting itself from damage. They’re the more common of the two and often appear on the soles of the feet.

Corns vs. calluses

Understanding the distinguishing characteristics of corns and calluses helps you understand how to treat and prevent them.

Visual clues

• Corns have a hard, waxy center; they can be small and circular
• Calluses are usually larger; the skin is equally thickened without any noticeable core

Location

• Corns occur on bony parts of the foot, such as the tops and sides of the toes 
• Calluses can develop on any part of the foot that experiences repeated pressure

How corns and calluses affect daily life

A little toe bump or thick skin doesn’t seem like it should warrant your attention until you realize how it impacts you. 

Corns on the bottom of your foot make walking painful. The direct pressure elicits an “ouch” with each step.

Calluses, while less likely to be outright painful, can still cause discomfort, especially for athletes.

And don’t disregard the cosmetic side of corns and calluses. They can be unsightly, which may affect self-esteem and your desire to engage in activities where your feet are exposed, such as swimming.

Potential complications of corns and calluses

One of the less immediately obvious but equally significant impacts of corns and calluses is their potential to alter your gait. When your foot hurts, you might unconsciously shift your walking pattern to minimize the discomfort. While this may provide short-term relief, altering your natural gait can lead to other issues.

Uneven weight distribution

Changing how you walk can lead to uneven weight distribution across your feet and legs. Over time, this can stress specific muscles and joints, leaving them more susceptible to injury.

Muscle imbalance

Gait changes can cause certain muscles to overcompensate while others weaken from underuse, leading to imbalances that may extend beyond the feet, affecting your ankles, knees, hips, and even your back.

Increased risk of injury

An altered gait affects the muscles and joints and increases the risk of falls and other injuries. A minor adjustment in how you step can significantly impact your overall stability and mobility.

How to treat and prevent corns and calluses

The good news is that these annoyances are very manageable. Home remedies and medical treatments can alleviate your symptoms and reduce recurrence.

At-home strategies

For calluses, soak your feet in warm, soapy water and rub the callus gently with a pumice stone to remove the dead skin.

Corns may require padding. You can try over-the-counter corn cushions or talk to Dr. Cerniglia about custom orthotics you can slip into your shoes.

Professional help

Dr. Cerniglia is your best bet for severe or persistent corns or calluses. He can safely remove them and help you avoid infection.

Making adjustments for happy feet

Preventing corns and calluses is often a matter of making small but significant changes to your daily routines and personal care.

Opt for comfortable footwear

1. Wear shoes that fit well and safeguard your corn-prone areas. Sometimes, that means a little extra room in the toes.
2. Choose footwear that reduces friction and provides appropriate support for the natural shape of your feet.
3. Keep an eye on your feet — the sooner you address discomfort or potential areas of concern, the easier it is to manage.
4. Note any changes in gait or the wear pattern on your shoe soles.

To get your corns and calluses checked, call Ankle and Foot Institute of Texas in Fort Worth or request an appointment online.