Corns and calluses are patches of thick, hard skin. They usually form on feet and toes but can also form on hands and fingers. They are caused by pressure or friction on the skin and rarely cause problems. A corn is a small, painful, inflamed area of thick skin. A callus is bigger and not usually painful.
Take special care so treatment doesn’t lead to a foot infection.
Have frequent check-ups if you have foot problems.
Your GP will refer you to a podiatrist if you have numbness, pins and needles or weakness in your feet.
See the diabetes foot screening factsheet for more information.
Your GP will ask you questions to find out what is causing your corn or callus. They may treat the affected area by soaking in warm water, filing down the skin and applying a cream.
Your GP will also show you how to look after your skin and treat your corn or callus at home. In rare cases, your GP will refer you to a specialist called an orthopaedic surgeon if surgery is required to treat an underlying problem.
Your GP may want to see you for a follow up appointment to check on your corn or callus. If it hasn’t improved, your GP may refer you to a surgeon. Your GP may also refer you to a podiatrist to help you manage your foot health.
To help your corn or callus heal, you can wear protective gloves, especially for manual, outdoor or repetitive tasks. Wear well-fitting, comfortable, flat footwear. Use a protective adhesive over the corn or callus. Your GP may tell you to gently file the affected skin and use a soothing cream. See your GP if your corn or callus does not go away with treatment.
Corns and calluses
Important: This information is to be viewed by someone who has received a diagnosis from their doctor. It is not designed to be used to diagnose a condition or as a substitute for ongoing medical care.
