What is the difference between a corn and a callus?
A callus will typically form on the bottoms of your feet at the heel and forefoot and sometimes on the big toe. It is a flat area of built-up skin that’s dry, flaky, and can crack. It is usually not painful and just requires basic hygiene and care to get rid of the dead skin cells and moisturize the area.
A corn usually appears on the tops, sides, in between your toes. It is small, round, and can be painful. It is often caused by pressure from shoes on the joint of a deformed toe. It can also develop between the toes at friction points and may remain soft there because of perspiration.
Both can respond well to foot soaks, removing dead skin with a pumice stone, and moisturizing. If needed, pads can be used to offload pressure from hotspots on your feet.
For ongoing problems with corns and calluses, call Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle Center at (303) 423-2520 to set up an appointment in our Wheat Ridge, Golden, Evergreen, or Granby, CO, office. We can safely remove the dead skin and help your feet be more comfortable.
