What are Corns & Callus?
Corns and calluses are thickened, hardened layers of skin that develop when your skin tries to protect itself against friction and pressure. They most often develop on the feet, toes, and hands.
While calluses are generally not painful, corns can be extremely uncomfortable. A corn has a hard centre surrounded by inflamed skin and can make walking very painful. Our specialist podiatrists can remove these safely and identify why they're forming.
Common Symptoms
- Thick, rough area of skin
- Hardened, raised bump
- Tenderness or pain under the skin
- Flaky, dry, or waxy skin
- Pain when wearing shoes
- A hard core in the centre (corns)
Common Causes
- Ill-fitting shoes (too tight or too loose)
- Not wearing socks with shoes
- Foot deformities (bunions, hammertoes)
- Abnormal gait or foot mechanics
- Bony prominences rubbing on shoes
- High-heeled shoes causing pressure
How We Treat Corns & Callus
We provide professional corn and callus removal using sterile instruments, which is far more effective and safer than over-the-counter remedies. Importantly, we also assess why you're developing these lesions and address the underlying causes. Where abnormal pressure is the cause, custom orthotics redistribute that load so the hard skin stops returning. Routine removal like this is part of everyday care from our Belfast chiropodists.
Professional Debridement
Padding & Deflection
Footwear Advice
Custom Orthotics
Ready to get corns & callus treated?
When to Seek Professional Help
- Corns or calluses become painful
- You have diabetes or poor circulation
- Home treatments aren't working
- The area shows signs of infection (redness, pus)
- Corns keep returning despite treatment
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Corns & Callus at Lower Limb Clinic.
Further Reading
Clinically reviewed by Paul McMullan, BSc(Hons) MSc FRCPSGlasg MRCPod
BSc (Hons) Podiatry · MSc Podiatric Sports Medicine (QMUL) · FRCPSGlasg · MRCPod
Lead Podiatrist & Clinical Director, Lower Limb Clinic Belfast