Corns and Calluses
Repeated rubbing or pressure causes thick skin. A corn has a small hard center; a callus is a broader thickened area.
Why it happens
Shoes that rub, bent toes and other changes in foot shape can concentrate pressure in one spot. Thick skin is the body's response to that pressure.
What you may notice
A rough or firm patch that may hurt when pressed or when you walk.
Different kinds of thick skin
Hard corns usually sit over a pressure point and have a concentrated center. Soft corns can form between toes, where moisture makes the skin pale and rubbery.
Calluses tend to cover a wider area. Some painful thickened spots can bleed, so avoid cutting them.
Treatment and what to expect
Your clinician will look for the source of pressure and choose treatment to protect the skin. Ask which shoes or pads fit your foot. Removing thick skin alone does not stop it returning. Check the skin around the area each day for a crack or sore. Bring your usual shoes to the visit so you can discuss where they rub and which changes may make walking more comfortable.
When to call
Call if the area hurts, cracks, bleeds or develops a sore. Thick skin can return unless the source of pressure is addressed.
Your next steps
● Have your shoes and pressure points checked.
● Ask about padding or other ways to reduce rubbing.
● Do not cut, shave or dig out the thick skin. Avoid medicated corn pads. Let the office guide treatment, especially if you have diabetes or poor feeling in your feet.
Skin care between visits
Ask whether a daily moisturizing cream, including one containing urea, would help your dry skin. The office can guide the product and where to apply it.
Use a file or pumice stone only if your clinician says it is safe, especially with diabetes, poor circulation or numbness. Never use a blade at home.
What professional treatment can do
A podiatrist may carefully reduce thick skin with a sterile instrument, then use padding or an insole to spread pressure. The relief may be temporary if the same pressure continues. Contact the office quickly for bleeding beneath the skin, pus, redness or swelling; these need more than routine callus care.