Corns and calluses

Overview

Calluses form on the soles and palms. Corns form on toes, often from tight shoes.

People with diabetes should have a professional care for corns and calluses.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Thick, hard skin or a painful spot on the feet

Less common

• Pain when walking

Look up a symptom: Foot pain · Thick, hard skin or a painful spot on the feet

When to get medical care

Causes

Friction and pressure from shoes, walking, or tools.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Tight shoes
• Bunions
• Diabetes

Diagnosis

A healthcare professional can tell by looking.

Questions you may be asked

• Shoes and activities
• Diabetes

The exam

A foot exam.

Treatment

Removing pressure helps most.

Self-care

• Wear shoes that fit: roomy toe box
• Use pads or cushions
• Soak and file with a pumice stone
• Moisturize

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

A podiatrist can trim thick skin.

Prevention

To prevent them:

• Wear well-fitting shoes
• Use padding

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a podiatrist (foot doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

They go away when pressure stops.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Do I need inserts?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Corns and calluses