Corns and calluses are areas of thick skin that result from excessive pressure or friction on the toes, the back of the heel, the ball of the foot or the top of the foot.  Hard patches of skin are called calluses and are part of the body’s defense to protect the underlying tissues.  If pressure becomes concentrated in a small area, a hard corn may develop.  Sometimes the pressure of the corn or callus may produce inflammation which can result in acute pain, swelling and redness.

Corns and calluses are generally symptom of underlying problems and in some cases, early warning signals of more complex foot problems.  Because they are caused by continuous pressure in a particular area, they may indicate an abnormality or deformity in bone structure or the way a person walks.  Often calluses and corns are caused by ill fitting shoes.

The physicians at Hosey Foot and Ankle Centers will recommend ways to relieve pain and eliminate corns and calluses.  Just as important, they will help isolate the cause and prevent the problem recurring.