Corns and Calluses

Leaving foot pain behind has never looked better.

Corns and calluses are extremely common, but that fact doesn’t make them hurt any less. People often try to live with corn and callus pain until it’s hard to walk or wear shoes. Fortunately, you don’t need to do that — most people can find effective relief with care from a foot and ankle specialist.

Corn and callus care: Why choose Henry Ford Health?

People choose Henry Ford for their foot care because they get all the help they need from one trusted source. From handling common conditions such as corns and calluses to delivering treatment for complications from diabetes, our specialists do it all.

We offer:

• Treatments for corns and calluses without surgery: We recommend nonsurgical options for treating corns and calluses whenever possible. Custom orthotics, physical therapy and callus shaving are just a few of our conservative treatments.
• Comprehensive care: For some people, especially those with diabetes, corns and calluses can turn into serious foot problems. Our foot specialists work closely with endocrinologists and wound specialists to ensure you receive all the care you need. Learn more about diabetic foot care.
• Easy access: With multiple Henry Ford locations, virtual care options and appointments available within 24 business hours, it’s never been easier to get foot care.

What is a corn?

A corn is a type of callus, which is a patch of skin that thickens due to repeated friction or irritation. Most calluses form on the bottoms of the feet. Corns, however, tend to form on the tops and sides of the toes. People usually report feeling more pain from corns than calluses.

Poor-fitting shoes can lead to a corn or callus. Certain conditions such as bunions and hammertoes can also increase the risk of developing corns and calluses. If you have nerve damage in your feet due to diabetes or circulatory problems, corns and calluses require close monitoring. Left untreated, these thickened patches of skin can lead to deep wounds or ulcers on the feet.

Corn and callus treatment

The foot specialists at Henry Ford can provide relief. We evaluate the severity of the corns and calluses on your feet, then design a unique treatment plan that works for you. We offer a range of care options, including:

• Custom orthotics
• Corn and callus shaving
• Toe pads to relieve pressure when wearing shoes
• Surgery to correct an underlying problem such as a toe deformity

Never try to remove a corn by yourself. Doing so can lead to infection and serious complications.