Corns and calluses on the feet: why they appear, how to treat them and when to seek help

Corns and calluses on the feet are a common condition, but one that shouldn't be ignored.

Although at first glance they appear to be just a harmless thickening of the skin, they can become painful, interfere with walking and even cause more serious complications, especially in people with conditions such as diabetes. In this article we explain what they are, what causes them, how to treat them and when it's really necessary to seek specialist help.

What are corns and calluses?

Both result from the body's natural response to repeated friction or pressure. The body creates a thicker layer of skin to protect the affected area. However, although they may look similar, there are differences:

• Calluses (clavus): these are smaller, harder areas with a defined center, which usually appear in areas of greater pressure, such as the toes.
• Calluses (hyperkeratoses): are larger areas of thickened skin, usually without a defined center, and tend to appear on the soles of the feet or the heel.

Both conditions can become painful, especially if there is constant pressure or if cracks appear.

Why do corns and calluses appear?

Corns and calluses can appear for various reasons. The most common include:

• Unsuitable footwear: tight, pointed or high-heeled shoes cause friction and pressure.
• Foot deformities: such as bunions, hammer toes or changes in gait.
• Lack of skin hydration: dry skin is more prone to developing thickenings.
• Repetitive activities: standing for a long time, walking long distances or playing sport regularly.
• Lack of specialized care: incorrect nail cutting, accumulation of dead skin or lack of proper exfoliation also contribute.

In many cases, these causes combine to aggravate the problem over time.

How can corns and calluses be relieved and treated?

Treatment depends on the severity and location of the corns and calluses. Some home remedies can help with temporary relief, but it's important to know when these measures are no longer sufficient.

Home care:

• Daily moisturizing with foot creams rich in urea.
• Gentle exfoliation with pumice stones or suitable files to reduce thickening.
• Wearing comfortable shoes with adequate toe room and good impact absorption.
• Insoles or protectors to reduce pressure and friction in the most affected areas.

However, when the problem persists or intensifies, it's time to seek professional support.

When should you seek help?

If the corns or calluses are persistent, painful, show changes in color, deep cracks or signs of infection, it is essential to consult a specialist. This is especially important in the case of:

• People with diabetes, who may not feel pain due to neuropathy and are at greater risk of developing sores or infections.
• Feet with structural alterations, such as bunions or overlapping toes, which require specific corrections.
• Repetition of the problem even after home care, which may indicate biomechanical causes that need podiatric assessment.

At Centro Podológico de Lisboa, corns and calluses are treated with technical rigor and attention to patient comfort. The procedure removes the thickened skin safely, avoiding wounds and immediately relieving pressure.

In addition, a full assessment is carried out to understand the origin of the problem and prevent recurrences. Personalized orthotics, changes to footwear or complementary care such as technical nail cutting may be recommended.

The importance of prevention

Preventing corns and calluses is possible with simple, regular care:

• Keep your feet well hydrated and clean.
• Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces.
• Choose footwear that suits your physique and the activity you do.
• Have regular check-ups with a professional, especially if you have had previous episodes or belong to risk groups.

Proper follow-up can not only treat the symptoms, but also act directly on the cause, restoring comfort and health to your feet.

Conclusion

Corns and calluses are more than an aesthetic nuisance - they can seriously affect your day-to-day well-being. Knowing how to recognize them, treat them correctly and seek help when necessary is essential to avoid complications.

If you experience pain when walking, have hardened areas on your feet or simply want to keep your feet healthy, talk to us. We're ready to help you take lighter, more comfortable steps.

Make an appointment at Centro Podológico de Lisboa!