A callus, also known as hyperkeratosis, refers to an area of hard, thickened skin that can occur across the on the heel, ball of foot, or on the toes because of chronic pressure or rubbing that occurs across a bony prominence. Although many consider calluses to be a skin problem, they are actually indicative of a problem with the bone.
Calluses can irritate nerves and develop bursal sacs (fluid-filled balloons that act as shock absorbers) beneath them, causing symptoms that range from sharp, shooting pain, to dull, aching soreness. Dr. Schottenstein can talk to you about the treatments for your calluses, and even provide options for helping to alleviate the pressure that is leading to the development of the callus to help prevent them from forming in the future.
Corns can develop when there is consistent pressure on one area of skin on your foot or toe. The body will form a hard surface (a corn) in order to protect itself from the chronic pressure in the area. Corns are shaped like cones and are usually found along toe bones where the tip of the corn can press against a nerve causing sharp pain. Attempts to remove a corn at home with medicated corn pads can cause serious infections, so a consultation with a podiatrist is the best way to identify and treat different types of corns safely.