Corns or Calluses

Callus can appear pale or yellow in colour due to its thickness, the skin is less sensitive to touch, often found under the ball of the foot.  Corns tend to develop on the tops and sides of the toes due to repeated friction and pressure from skin rubbing against bony areas or against an irregularity in a shoe.

Hard corns vary in size and can appear almost translucent in colour.  Soft corns form between the toes due to moisture; they appear whitish and rubbery in texture. Neurovascular corns are often very painful due to their nerve involvement. Seed corns are found on dry skin usually on the ball of the foot.

If you are a diabetic you should have all corns and calluses removed by Podiatrist; NEVER use commercial corn cures – this is important for those with diabetes as it is easy to damage the skin.

What might a podiatrist do?

• Examine the foot and possibly arrange for an X-Ray, if needed.
• Trim or pad the lesions
• Perform surgery when indicated