Corns and calluses are thick, hardened layers of skin that develop due to friction and pressure. 

Calluses are often the result of ill-fitting shoes. They typically form under the ball of the foot or on the top or edges of the toes. Ironically, calluses form to protect tissue but often add painful pressure to the areas they’re attempting to protect. 

Calluses that sit in between or on top of the toes are often called corns. Corns can be either soft or hard. Soft corns, which are moist and red, usually occur between the toes and are aggravated by moisture, shoes or socks that are too tight, and toes rubbing together. Hard corns, which typically occur on the tops of toes, are often the result of poorly fitting shoes.

• A thick, rough area of skin

• A hardened, raised bump

• Tenderness or pain under your skin

• Flaky, dry, or waxy skin 

from Schuler Shoes' Board Certified Pedorthist

This is not a medical diagnosis but a footwear recommendation to relieve symptoms. It's meant to supplement your doctor's treatment plan. 

If you have soft corns, try shoes with a wider toe box that allows for free toe movement. The extra room should prevent rubbing and provide some pain relief. Since soft corns can also be aggravated by moisture, invest in a pair of socks designed to wick away sweat. Toe spacers and toe socks can also help relieve pain.

If you have hard corns, try shoes with a deeper toe box. This should prevent your toes from rubbing against the top of the shoes and aggravating the corns.

If you have frequent calluses, wearing properly fitted footwear can help alleviate the pressure points that cause them. Consider visiting a shoe store in person and having your feet measured by a board-certified pedorthist (CPed) to ensure proper fit.

Seek your doctor's advice on proper care for corns and calluses if you have one of these conditions. If you’re healthy, you typically only need to treat corns and calluses if they cause discomfort. For most people, simply eliminating the source of friction or pressure makes corns and calluses disappear. However, if you have diabetes or another condition that causes poor circulation in your feet, you're at greater risk of complications from corns and calluses. 

Wearing the right footwear can help relieve pain and stop new corns and calluses from forming. At Schuler Shoes, our knowledgeable CPeds act as extensions of your provider’s care, offering tailored solutions and ensuring your perfect fit.

References: Mayo Clinic