Foot specialists often treat patients experiencing corns and calluses. While both issues involve hard, sometimes painful areas of skin on the feet as a result of friction or pressure, these conditions differ in many ways. Before scheduling an appointment with your podiatrist, here’s what you should know about corns and calluses. 

Corns

Corns are defined by a buildup of hard skin and are generally found on or between the toes. When a corn forms, they are round in shape and appear waxy and discolored in comparison to the rest of your foot. Touching corns with your finger or wearing tight-fitting shoes can cause pain. Pressure from shoes, especially when you don’t wear socks, is the most common culprit for this condition. While some individuals can remove corns using a pumice stone, many prefer visiting a podiatrist for professional assessment and removal. 

Calluses

A callus, in contrast, is a yellowish buildup of hard skin that’s found anywhere on the bottom of your foot, especially on the heel. The shape of a callus can vary from one individual to another, but they are usually bigger, wider, and have less defined edges than corns. Calluses are a result of tight-fitting shoes or simply due to an active lifestyle that involves plenty of standing and walking. Unlike corns, calluses generally do not cause pain when they are touched. Minor calluses can be removed using a pumice stone, but a larger and thicker buildup of the skin may require the help of a foot specialist.

Are you looking for a compassionate foot specialist who can help you better understand the differences between corns and calluses? If so, Dr. Eric D. Trattner is ready to provide an effective and informative service. With two locations and over 30 years of experience serving patients throughout Northern Ohio, you can depend on this podiatrist to provide excellent care in a friendly, comfortable setting. To schedule your free consultation, call today at (440) 333-5350 for Cleveland or (330) 405-3301 for their location in Twinsburg. For more information on the services they provide and their commitment to personalized care, visit their website.