Is the skin on the bottom of your feet blemish-free? For many people with foot irritation, it’s not. Sometimes, there are spots that cause embarrassment and pain.

Have you started to notice small areas of hardened skin on your feet? You might have a corn or a callus.

What’s the Difference?

The terms corns and calluses are often used interchangeably. That’s because both corns and calluses are hard areas of skin. They look alike to the untrained eye.

Although these skin conditions are similar in nature, there are a few differences that will help you distinguish what you have:

  • Corns are usually found on the top or sides of your toes. They can be either soft or hard. Soft corns are thinner and usually occur on the smaller toes. In some cases, corns are found on the bottom of the feet. These can be painful and are usually caused by plugged up sweat glands.

  • Calluses are found anywhere on the body from the hands to the feet. They are caused specifically by repetitive friction. On the feet, this most often happens because of poorly fitted shoes.

Preventing Corns and Calluses

Both pressure and rubbing cause corns and calluses. The best way to prevent corns and calluses from forming on your feet is to wear properly fitted shoes.

Women who wear high-heeled shoes are more likely to form calluses because of the pressure and rubbing motion on the balls of their feet.

Sandals are also frequent causes of corns and calluses. These shoes are not usually supportive, which can cause excess pressure to be placed on one area of the foot. In addition, wearing sandals without socks can cause excess friction, which leads to calluses.

Need help finding the right shoes for your feet? Worried you have corns or calluses? Let’s talk! Schedule an appointment with a Martin Foot & Ankle podiatrist today by calling 844-899-6961.