Stop Ignoring That Callus
If you have thick, hard skin on your feet, you are not alone. Corns and calluses are very common, especially as we age or spend long hours on our feet. While they may seem minor, proper corn and callus care can prevent discomfort, pain, and even infection.
What Is the Difference?
Calluses are larger areas of thickened skin that usually develop on the bottom of the feet, especially under the heels or balls of the feet. They are your body’s way of protecting skin from repeated pressure or friction.
Corns are smaller and deeper. They often form on the tops or sides of toes and can become quite painful, especially when pressed or walked on.
Both are signs that something is causing ongoing pressure: tight footwear, foot structure, walking patterns, or high activity levels.
Why You Should Not Ignore Them
It can be tempting to shave them down at home or use over-the-counter medicated pads. However, these can damage healthy skin and increase the risk of infection, especially for people with diabetes or circulation concerns.
Professional corn and callus care focuses on safely reducing thickened skin while identifying the cause. At Werkman, Boven & Associates Foot Clinic in Oakville, we gently debride hardened skin and provide advice on footwear, padding, and orthotics if needed.
If pressure continues without treatment, corns can become inflamed, and calluses can crack. Open skin on the feet can lead to infection, particularly among patients with conditions such as diabetes. The Canadian Diabetes Association provides helpful information about daily foot checks and prevention.
How to Prevent Them
- Choose properly fitted footwear with enough toe room
- Moisturize daily to keep skin flexible
- Choose properly fitted socks and footwear to reduce pressure on the toes, heels, and ball of the foot.
- Book routine foot care appointments
If you are noticing thickened skin, discomfort, or recurring pressure points, it may be time for professional corn and callus care.
