Corns and calluses: when to see a podiatrist

We’ve all been there. That nagging, hard patch of skin on your foot that’s a little tender. Maybe it’s a small, concentrated bump on your toe, or a broader, tougher area on the ball of your foot. These are the classic signs of corns and calluses – your body’s way of protecting itself from friction and pressure.

For many, they’re a minor annoyance that can be managed at home with a pumice stone and some good quality moisturiser. But what if they’re more than that? What if they’re causing real pain, or you’re worried about what’s underneath? As a podiatrist, I’m often asked this question, and the answer is crucial for your foot health.

What’s the Difference Anyway? Corns vs. Calluses

Before we dive into when to seek professional help, let’s quickly clarify the difference.

• Calluses are generally larger, spread-out areas of thickened skin. They typically form on the soles of your feet, especially under the heel or the ball of the foot, and are often a response to repetitive pressure from ill-fitting shoes or a biomechanical issue in your gait.
• Corns are smaller, more concentrated, and have a distinct, hard core that can press on a nerve, causing sharp pain. They usually develop on the tops or sides of your toes, or between them, often from rubbing against footwear.

When to Take That Next Step: Signs You Need a Podiatrist

While home care is a good first step, there are definitive signs that indicate it’s time to book an appointment with a podiatrist. Don’t wait until the pain is unbearable. Early intervention is key!

1. Persistent or Increasing Pain: If your corn or callus is causing significant pain that interferes with walking, standing, or wearing shoes, it’s a clear signal that the underlying pressure needs to be addressed professionally. Over-the-counter remedies might offer temporary relief, but they won’t fix the root cause.
2. You Have Diabetes or Other Circulatory Issues: This is perhaps the most critical point. Individuals with diabetes are at a much higher risk of developing foot ulcers and infections from seemingly minor foot problems. Even a small break in the skin from a corn can lead to serious complications. Never attempt to trim corns or calluses yourself if you have diabetes. A podiatrist can safely and effectively debride the area and provide ongoing foot care advice.
3. Signs of Infection: Be on the lookout for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pus, or increased warmth around the area. This can happen if the skin breaks down or if you’ve attempted to ‘cut out’ the corn yourself. An infection requires immediate professional attention to prevent it from spreading.
4. You’re Not Sure What It Is: Sometimes, what looks like a corn or callus could be something else entirely, like a plantar wart or a foreign body embedded in the skin. A podiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis and create a safe and effective treatment plan.
5. The Corn or Callus Keeps Coming Back: If you’ve tried all the at-home treatments and the problem keeps returning, it’s a sign that the underlying cause hasn’t been addressed. A podiatrist will perform a biomechanical assessment to determine if your foot structure or walking pattern is the culprit. We can then recommend custom orthotics (shoe inserts), specific footwear, or other solutions to relieve the pressure and prevent recurrence.
6. It’s Affecting Your Mobility: If the pain from a corn or callus is causing you to change how you walk, you could be putting undue stress on your knees, hips, and back. This can lead to a cascade of other musculoskeletal problems. Addressing the initial foot issue is vital for your overall well-being.

Safe and Effective Treatment Options

When you visit a podiatrist for corns and calluses, you can expect a professional, safe, and effective treatment. We use sterile instruments to carefully and painlessly debride the thickened skin, providing immediate relief.

We will also work with you to find a long-term solution. This might involve:

• Footwear advice: We’ll help you select shoes that fit properly and provide the right support.
• Orthotics: Custom-made shoe inserts can redistribute pressure and correct biomechanical imbalances.
• Corn pads and shields: Professional-grade padding can protect the area from friction and pressure.
• Surgical intervention: In rare cases, a minor procedure may be necessary to correct a bone deformity that is causing the problem.

Don’t Let Pain Rule Your Life

Corns and calluses are a common foot problem, but they don’t have to be a painful one. While a good at-home foot care routine is a great start, knowing when to seek professional help is crucial for your long-term foot health. If you’re experiencing pain, have an underlying health condition, or just can’t get rid of a stubborn corn, it’s time to see a podiatrist. Your feet will thank you for it!