Corns Vs. Calluses: How To Distinguish Between The Two

Have you ever noticed a hard, thick growth on your skin, particularly on your feet, fingers, or hands? If you have, you're not alone. They can be a sign of both corns and calluses, which are skin problems that arise due to repeated pressure or friction. They are usually painless, but they can cause discomfort and may be unappealing to look at, which is why many people choose to have them removed. While the treatment for both conditions is the same, it is important to know what you have so you can take proper care and measures.

In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Swapna Priya, Consultant Dermatologist, CARE Hospitals, Hitech City, Hyderabad, helps distinguish between the two.

What Is Corn Vs. Callus?

Dr Priya describes corns as small, rounded, and hardened areas of skin that typically develop on the toes and feet due to pressure or friction. They can be more prevalent in people who put excessive pressure on a specific area, often from tight or ill-fitting shoes, or if a person has toe deformities, such as hammer toes or bunions.

Other factors that may increase the risk include abnormal walking motion and not wearing socks with shoes.

Calluses are thickened and hardened areas of skin that also develop as a result of repeated friction, pressure, or irritation. However, they often form on the hands, feet, or any part of the body that is frequently exposed to such conditions. Causes of calluses may be similar to corns, which include:

• Repeated friction or pressure, usually from activities like walking, running, or using hand tools.
• Ill-fitting shoes.
• Walking barefoot.
• Certain types of sports or physical activities put pressure on specific areas of the feet or hands.

How To Differentiate Between A Callus And A Corn?

In several cases, corns and calluses are used interchangeably. However, the two conditions are different and can be distinguished as per their appearances.

Corns are smaller and more defined than calluses. They have a hard centre surrounded by inflamed skin and often appear on the tops or sides of toes or in areas where there is no weight-bearing pressure. Moreover, they can be hard (dry and firm) or soft (moist and rubbery, often found between toes).

On the other hand, calluses are generally larger and less defined than corns. They have a thick, rough texture and are typically yellowish or greyish in colour.

According to Dr Priya, they often form on the soles of the feet, especially on the heels, balls of the feet, along the sides of the feet, or on the palms and fingers.

As far as pain is concerned, corns are often more painful than calluses, especially when pressed.

Treatment Options

Corns and calluses usually have the same treatment. It includes:

• Wearing well-fitting shoes with adequate cushioning and support
• Using protective pads or insoles.
• Soak the affected area in warm water and gently file with a pumice stone or foot file.
• Moisturise the skin regularly.

In the case of corn, additional measures like using over-the-counter corn removal treatments containing salicylic acid may be recommended. In addition, for persistent or painful corns, consulting a healthcare professional for removal or advice on custom orthotics is advised.

Reference Link

https://www.onlymyhealth.com/how-to-distinguish-between-corns-and-calluses-1720681048