Why You Keep Getting Corns and Calluses

Almost everyone experiences a corn or callus at one time or another, but if they become a regular occurrence, you may wonder why. The good news is that corns and calluses can often be prevented with a few simple changes.

At Mayfair Foot Care in Commack, New York, podiatrists Drs. Edward Buro, Christine Peterson, and Rosario Saccomanno specialize in corn and callus treatment. This blog explains the difference between corns and calluses and highlights some of their most common causes.

What are corns and calluses?

Corns and calluses are hard, thickened layers of skin. They can form almost anywhere on the body but commonly affect the toes, heels, and feet.

Although the words “corns” and “calluses” are often used interchangeably, they’re two different things:

Corns

Corns are small bumps with a hard center surrounded by swollen skin. They usually form on the tops and sides of the toes or balls of the feet. Corns look similar to a blister and are painful when pressed. 

Calluses

Calluses are oval or oblong-shaped areas of thickened skin. They form when your skin rubs against your shoes or socks, causing it to die and form a protective outer layer. Calluses aren’t painful and often form on the heels and balls of the feet.

3 reasons you keep getting corns and calluses

Now that you know the difference between corns and calluses, let’s look at some of the most common causes.

1. Wearing poor-fitting shoes

Your shoes can increase or decrease the risk of corns and calluses. If you regularly experience either of these skin growths, it’s likely because your shoes don’t fit well. 

For example, tight-fitting shoes, like high heels, can crowd your toes and rub against your skin. Alternatively, if your shoes are too loose, they may rub against your socks or skin and cause a corn or callus to form.

2. Your gait (how you walk)

Everyone walks a little differently. You might not realize that how your feet land on the ground or distribute your weight can increase the risk of corns and calluses.

For instance, if you pronate, or roll your foot when you take a step, the skin on the insides of your foot may experience repetitive friction. Conversely, if you supinate, or roll your foot outward, the outer edge of your foot or little toe might become irritated.

3. Bone structure

Everyone has the same number of bones and joints in their feet, but how these structures present varies greatly. Some people simply have bony feet. If you wear ill-fitting shoes or do a lot of walking or exercising, a bony foot structure increases the risk of friction and, in turn, corns and calluses. 

Certain foot abnormalities can also increase your risk. For example, if you have a hammertoe or bunion, these bony protrusions are more likely to rub against your shoes and socks.

We can treat your corns and calluses!

Corns and calluses are common, but they can affect mobility and quality of life without proper treatment. Contact Mayfair Foot Care today if you repeatedly experience corns or calluses. Call our office in Commack, New York, to schedule an appointment, or book your visit online.