Overview Of Calluses And Corns
Calluses And Corns are thick layers of skin. They are caused by repeated pressure or friction at the spot where the corn or callus develops.
Causes Of Calluses And Corns
Corns and calluses are caused by pressure or friction on the skin. A corn is thickened skin on the top or side of a toe. Most of the time it is caused by bad-fitting shoes. A callus is thickened skin on your hands or the soles of your feet.
The thickening of the skin is a protective reaction. For example, farmers and rowers get calluses on their hands that prevent blisters from forming. People with bunions often develop a callus over the bunion because it rubs against the shoe.
Corns and calluses are not serious problems.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include:
- Skin is thick and hardened.
- Skin may be flaky and dry.
- Hardened, thick skin areas are found on hands, feet, or other areas that may be rubbed or pressed.
- The affected areas can be painful and may bleed.
Exams & Tests
Your health care provider will make the diagnosis after looking at your skin. In most cases, tests are not needed.
Treatment Of Calluses And Corns
Preventing friction is often the only treatment needed.
To treat Corns:
- If poor fitting shoes are causing the corn, changing to shoes with a better fit will help get rid of the problem most of the time.
- Protect the corn with a doughnut-shaped corn pad while it is healing. You can buy these at most drug stores.
To treat Calluses:
- Calluses often occur due to excess pressure placed on the skin because of another problem such as bunions or hammertoes. Proper treatment of any underlying condition should prevent the calluses from returning.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands during activities that cause friction (such as gardening and weight lifting) to help prevent calluses.
- If an infection or ulcer occurs in an area of a callus or corn, the tissue may need to be removed by a provider. You may need to take antibiotics.
