Corns and Callous

Corns generally occur on the tops and sides of the toes. A corn is a small patch of thickened, dead skin with a small plug of skin in the centre. Corns can be extremely painful if friction or pressure is applied , either from tight fitting socks and footwear or from the toes putting pressure on each other.

Calluses are hard and rough-feeling areas of skin that can develop on the feet This is normally a result of friction cause by incorrect fitting footwear or by an abnormality in the gait pattern. If corns and callus are a recurring issue, regular attention from a foot health practitioner or chiropodist is strongly recommended. Often a corrective insole will be recommended to correct an abnormality in gait which may be causing friction or incorrect gait.

A shoe fitter will advise a choice of footwear which will help to reduce the element of friction in walking. Footwear should be correctly fitted, paying special attention to the area where corns and callus are present.