Calluses and corns are thickened areas of skin caused by repeated friction or pressure, often leading to discomfort or pain.
Dun Laoghaire Foot Clinic offers professional treatments to remove these hardened skin layers and address underlying causes such as improper footwear or foot mechanics. Our expert care relieves symptoms and helps prevent recurrence, ensuring your feet stay healthy and comfortable.
What are calluses and corns, and what causes them?
Calluses:
A callus (or callosity) is a broad area of hardened, thickened skin on the sole of the foot. It often indicates an underlying issue, such as a bony deformity, improper gait, or unsuitable footwear. Some individuals are more prone to callus formation due to their skin type, and elderly people, who have less fatty tissue in their skin, may develop calluses more frequently on the ball of the foot.
Corns:
Corns develop due to pressure or friction over bony areas, such as joints, and contain a central core that can cause pain if it presses on a nerve. There are five main types of corns:
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Hard corns – The most common type, appearing as small, concentrated areas of hard skin, often within a larger callus. They may be linked to improper foot or toe function.
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Soft corns – Similar to hard corns but softer in texture, these are whitish and rubbery, typically forming between the toes due to moisture from sweat or inadequate drying.
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Seed corns – Tiny corns that occur singly or in clusters on the bottom of the foot, usually painless.
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Vascular/neurovascular corns – Containing both nerve fibers and blood vessels, these corns can be extremely painful and may bleed heavily if cut.
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Fibrous corns – Developing over time, these corns are more deeply embedded in the tissue and tend to be more painful than other types.
What are the symptoms of calluses and corns?
Calluses appear as rough, thickened patches of skin that may feel hard or waxy. Corns are smaller and hard or soft, often causing discomfort or pain, especially when pressed.
How are calluses and corns treated?
Treatment involves:
Reducing pressure and friction.
Carefully remove the thickened skin.
Addressing the underlying cause, such as ill-fitting shoes.
Our podiatrists may recommend orthotics or padding to prevent recurrence.
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When should I consider a Podiatrist/Chiropodist?Any time you experience sore feet or foot pain you should consider seeing our practitioners especially if you are diabetic you should visit on a regular basis for check ups
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Do I need a referral for podiatry services?No - you can self refer and contact our clinic directly and make an appointment for podiatry services.
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Who do you treat?At Dun Laoghaire Foot Clinic, we cater our podiatry services to all generations of men, women and children.