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Corns and Calluses
Summary
Corns and calluses are caused by pressure or friction on your skin. They often appear on feet where the bony parts of your feet rub against your shoes. Corns usually appear on the tops or sides of toes while calluses form on the soles of feet. Calluses also can appear on hands or other areas that are rubbed or pressed.
Wearing shoes that fit better or using non-medicated pads may help. While bathing, gently rub the corn or callus with a washcloth or pumice stone to help reduce the size. To avoid infection, do not try to shave off the corn or callus. See your doctor, especially if you have diabetes or circulation problems.
NIH: National Institute on Aging
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
Related Issues
- 10 Points of Proper Shoe Fit: How Do You Find the Right Shoes? American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society
- Bunions (Hallux Abducto Valgus) American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons
- Hammertoe American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons
Find an Expert
- American Podiatric Medical Association American Podiatric Medical Association
- Find a Dermatologist American Academy of Dermatology
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
Start Here
- Blisters, Calluses, and Corns Nemours Foundation
- Corns and Calluses American Podiatric Medical Association
Encyclopedia
- Bunions Medical Encyclopedia
Images
Clinical Trials
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Callosities National Institutes of Health
Patient Handouts
- Corns and calluses Medical Encyclopedia
Prevention and Risk Factors
- Diabetes and Foot Problems National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
- Taking Care of Your Feet American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society
Treatments and Therapies
- How to Treat Corns and Calluses American Academy of Dermatology