Corns and Calluses

Corns and calluses are both areas of thickened skin that often develop on the feet, but they have distinct characteristics and can form in response to different types of pressure and friction.

Corns

1. Appearance
   - Corns are small, raised bumps with a hard center, often surrounded by inflamed and irritated skin.
   - They can be dry, waxy, or translucent, and they may have a cone-shaped or circular appearance.

2. Location
   - Commonly found on the tops and sides of toes, as well as on the bottom of the feet.
   - Develop in areas where there is excessive pressure or friction, usually due to ill-fitting shoes or foot deformities.

3. Types
   - Hard Corns (Heloma Durum): Typically found on non-weight-bearing areas of the foot, such as the tops of toes.
   - Soft Corns (Heloma Molle):Located between toes, often due to moisture and friction.

4. Causes
   - Develop as a result of repeated pressure or friction on the skin.
   - Tight or poorly fitting shoes are common culprits.
   - Foot deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes, can contribute to the formation of corns.

5. Treatment
   - Properly fitting shoes can help prevent and alleviate corns.
   - Protective padding or cushions can reduce friction.
   - In some cases, a healthcare professional may need to trim or remove the corn.

Calluses

1. Appearance
   - Calluses are larger, flattened areas of thickened skin.
   - They are generally less well-defined than corns and do not have a central core

2. Location
   - Commonly found on the soles of the feet, especially in weight-bearing areas.
   - Can also develop on the palms, knees, or other areas of the body subject to friction.

3. Causes
   - Form in response to repeated friction or pressure, often as a protective mechanism for the skin.
   - Weight-bearing activities, such as walking or running, can contribute to callus formation.

4. Treatment:
   - Wearing well-fitting shoes with proper cushioning can help prevent calluses.
   - Regular use of moisturizers and pumice stones can help reduce the thickness of callused skin.
   - In some cases, a healthcare professional may need to debride or remove thickened skin.

While both corns and calluses are often benign, if they cause pain, discomfort, or if there are underlying foot conditions, it's advisable to seek professional advice from a Foot Specialist for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.