What Are Callouses?

Callouses are areas of thickened, hardened skin that develop as the body’s natural response to repeated pressure or friction.

They most commonly occur on weight-bearing areas of the feet such as:

• The heels

• The balls of feet

• The sides of toes

• Underneath prominent joints

When excessive pressure is placed on a certain part of the foot over time, the skin responds by building up layers to protect itself.

While this is a normal defence mechanism, too much callous can become painful, dry, cracked, and may even lead to skin breakdown or infection if left untreated.

What Are Corns?

Corns are similar to callouses but are:

• Smaller

• Deeper

• Often have a hard central core

They typically form on areas of the foot that don’t normally bear weight, such as:

• The tops of toes

• Between toes

• On bony prominences

Because of their depth and central core, corns can feel like you are “walking on a stone” and may become extremely tender when pressure is applied.

What Causes Callouses and Corns?

Common causes include:

• Poorly fitted footwear

• High heels or narrow shoes

• Foot deformities (e.g. bunions or hammertoes)

• Abnormal foot biomechanics

• Walking or standing for long periods

• High-pressure areas from the way you walk

Without addressing the underlying cause, callouses and corns will often continue to return even after temporary removal.

How Can a Podiatrist Help?

At Revival Podiatry, our Podiatrists not only remove painful callouses and corns, but also identify why they are forming in the first place.

Treatment may include:

• Professional Debridement

Safe and sterile removal of thickened skin using specialised instruments to reduce pain and pressure immediately

• Pressure Offloading

Use of padding, silicone toe props, or protective devices to relieve high-pressure areas

• Footwear Advice

Recommendations on appropriate footwear to prevent recurrence

• Orthotics Therapy

Custom foot orthotics may be prescribed to redistribute pressure more evenly across the foot and prevent excessive friction

• Ongoing Preventative Care

Routine Podiatry visits to keep skin healthy and reduce the risk of cracks, wounds, or infection - especially important for patients with diabetes or poor circulation.

Why You Should Avoid DIY Treatment

Attempting to cut or shave corns and callouses at home can:

• Cause injury to healthy skin

• Lead to infection

• Increase the risk of ulceration (especially for diabetic patients)

Over-the-counter corn pads may also contain acids that can damage surrounding skin and worsen the condition. Seeing a Podiatrist ensures safe treatment and long-term prevention.

When Should You See a Podiatrist

You should book an appointment if you experience:

• Pain when walking

• Thickened or hard skin build-up

• Cracked heels

• Tender spots on your toes or feet

• Recurring corns or callouses

Early treatment can prevent complications and keep you comfortably on your feet.