Corn (Callus)

It is a keratinized defense tissue formed by the body thickening and hardening the skin in areas exposed to continuous friction or mechanical pressure to protect it from perforation.

A wart is a viral infection (caused by HPV), is contagious, and contains small black dots (blood vessels) within it. A corn is not contagious, possesses a hard central core (root), and develops strictly at the site of physical pressure.

Wearing tight, narrow-toed, or high-heeled shoes, bony prominences on the foot (hammer toe, hallux valgus), flat feet, and occupations that involve intensive hand use (carpenters, weightlifters, guitarists) are the primary causes of corns.

Diabetic patients experience reduced nerve sensation in their feet (neuropathy) and poor blood circulation. A small ulceration forming unnoticed underneath a corn can rapidly become infected and advance to the bone, potentially leading to foot amputation.

Cutting a corn at home with a razor or knife carries a severe risk of infection and tetanus. Furthermore, as long as the root cause of the corn (pressure) is not eliminated, the body will recover that area with an even thicker and harder callus than before.

First, the shoe or bone deformity causing the friction is eliminated. The thickened skin is dissolved using salicylic acid (corn plasters) or urea-based keratolytic creams. Corns with deep and painful roots are painlessly filed down with special burrs by a dermatologist or a foot health specialist (podiatrist).