Corns and calluses
Definition
Corns and calluses are thickened layers of skin caused by repeated pressure or friction.Alternative Names
Calluses and corns
Causes
Corns and calluses are caused by pressure or friction on skin. A corn is thickened skin on the top or side of a toe, usually from shoes that do not fit properly. A callus is thickened skin on your hands or the soles of your feet.
The thickening of the skin is a protective reaction. For example, farmers and rowers get callused hands that prevent them from getting painful blisters. People with bunions often develop a callus over the bunion because it rubs against the shoe.
Neither corns nor calluses are serious conditions.
References
Boulton AJ. Pressure and the diabetic foot: clinical science and offloading techniques. Am J Surg. 2004; 187(5A): 17S-24S.
Freeman DB. Corns and calluses resulting from mechanical hyperkeratosis. Am Fam Physician. 2002; 65(11): 2277-2280.
Pinzur MS. Guidelines for diabetic foot care: recommendations endorsed by the Diabetes Committee of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society. Foot Ankle Int. 2005; 26(1): 113-119.
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