Corns vs. calluses
A callus is a broad area of thick skin, usually on the bottom of the foot under the ball or heel. A corn is smaller and deeper, often on the top or tip of a toe or between toes, and can be very painful.
What causes them
- Shoes that are too tight, too loose, or have seams that rub
- Hammertoes and bunions
- High arches or a prominent bone under the foot
- How your foot moves when you walk
Is it a callus or a wart?
A plantar wart can look like a callus. Warts often have tiny dark dots and hurt more when squeezed from the sides, while calluses hurt more with direct pressure. The exam tells them apart.
If you have diabetes or neuropathy, don't cut corns yourself or use medicated corn pads. The acid in them can cause wounds on numb feet.
Which visit to book
Book the Nail & Skin visit ($149).