Corns & Calluses

Corns and calluses are thickened areas of skin that sometimes form in response to pressure or friction on the feet. At Prime Foot and Ankle Care in South Brunswick, New Jersey, Nrupa Shah, DPM, safely removes corns and calluses, provides orthotics when needed, and offers guidance on proper footwear. Patients benefit from expert care that eases discomfort and prevents recurrence. Call Prime Foot and Ankle Care or request a consultation online today.

What are corns and calluses?

Corns and calluses are thickened areas of skin. They develop as a protective response to repeated friction or pressure.

While they may look similar, corns are usually smaller, round, and can be painful when pressed, often forming on the tops or sides of toes.

Calluses, on the other hand, are larger, flatter, and usually form on the bottoms of the feet. At Prime Foot and Ankle Care, Dr. Shah provides safe and effective treatment for both conditions.

What causes corns and calluses?

The most common reason for corns and calluses to develop is wearing shoes that don’t fit properly. They might be too tight or too loose, and high heels that put pressure on certain areas of the feet can also be a problem.

Other causes include foot abnormalities, such as bunions or hammertoes, as well as prolonged periods of walking or standing. Over time, the skin thickens to protect itself from irritation, leading to corns or calluses.

What symptoms are typical of corns and calluses?

Corns often appear as hard, raised bumps that feel tender when pressed. They may also have a hard center surrounded by inflamed skin.

Calluses, in contrast, are usually thick, rough patches of skin that may feel numb rather than painful. Both can make walking uncomfortable if they become too thick.

Dr. Shah examines the affected areas to determine whether the thickened skin is a corn, a callus, or another condition, such as a wart. She also looks for underlying foot problems, like misaligned bones, that may be contributing to the problem.

What treatments help with corns and calluses?

Mild corns and calluses are often manageable with simple treatments like changing your footwear, using protective pads, or moisturizing regularly to soften skin.

In-office care may include trimming or shaving thickened skin. Patients should avoid cutting corns or calluses themselves, as this can lead to infection. Dr. Shah may also recommend custom orthotics to reduce pressure on problem areas and prevent recurrence.

How can I prevent corns and calluses from coming back?

Wearing correctly fitting shoes, using cushioning pads, and keeping feet moisturized are key prevention strategies. For patients with conditions like bunions, hammertoes, or diabetes, regular foot exams help catch problems early.

At Prime Foot and Ankle Care, Dr. Shah helps patients walk more comfortably and avoid future issues. Call the office or book an appointment online today for fast relief.