Calluses and Corns

What Are Corns and Calluses?

Corns and calluses are areas of thickened skin that develop as a protective response to repeated friction or pressure. Corns are typically small, localized, and form on the tops or sides of toes, often due to tight or ill-fitting shoes. Calluses are larger, broader areas of thickened skin, usually found on weight-bearing parts of the feet, such as the heels or balls of the feet. While they generally protect the skin, they can cause discomfort when pressure continues.

Porokeratosis and Intractable Plantar Keratosis (IPK)

• Porokeratosis refers to a rare skin condition characterized by small, circular patches of thickened skin, often caused by abnormal keratinization. On the feet, it may appear as small, painful lesions that can resemble calluses but are more persistent.
• Intractable Plantar Keratosis (IPK) is a specific type of callus that forms under high-pressure areas of the foot, such as the ball of the foot or under a metatarsal head. Unlike typical calluses, IPKs are deeply embedded and can cause significant pain with walking or standing.

Common Causes of Corns, Calluses, Porokeratosis, and IPK

• Friction from tight or ill-fitting shoes
• Repetitive pressure from activities such as walking, running, or standing for long periods
• Abnormal foot structure, including bunions, hammertoes, or uneven weight distribution
• Skin conditions that lead to abnormal keratin production (e.g., porokeratosis)
• Underlying biomechanical issues, such as high arches or flat feet

Education on Prevention and Care

• Choose Proper Footwear: Wear shoes that fit well, provide cushioning, and have ample toe space to reduce friction and pressure.
• Use Protective Padding: Inserts, soft pads, or custom orthotics can redistribute pressure and reduce irritation to high-stress areas.
• Maintain Foot Hygiene: Keep feet clean and dry to prevent skin breakdown and irritation.
• Regular Skin Care: Use a pumice stone or foot file to gently exfoliate thickened areas after bathing, followed by a moisturizing cream to keep skin soft.

Treatment Options

• Professional Trimming: A podiatrist can safely trim corns, calluses, and thickened areas associated with porokeratosis or IPK to relieve pain.
• Orthotics and Shoe Modifications: Custom orthotic devices can help correct biomechanical issues and alleviate pressure on affected areas, particularly for IPKs.
• Topical Treatments: Medicated creams, including those with salicylic acid or urea, can soften thickened skin and aid in reducing buildup.
• Surgical Intervention: In severe or recurring cases, surgical correction of underlying structural issues may be necessary to relieve pressure and prevent future keratosis.