Ever looked at your feet and wondered, "Is that a corn or a callus?" You're not alone! These two foot troubles are often mixed up—but understanding the difference can really help you take better care of your feet (and avoid unnecessary pain).

Let’s break it down in a simple Q&A format.

❓Q: What exactly is a callus?

A: A callus is a patch of thickened skin that develops when your foot tries to protect itself from repeated rubbing or pressure. Think of it as your skin’s way of saying, “Hey, that’s a bit much!”

Calluses are usually:

• Flat and spread out

• Yellowish or greyish in colour

• Found on the soles of your feet (like the ball or heel)

They're not usually painful—just a bit hard and rough.

❓Q: So what’s a corn then?

A: A corn is like a callus’s bossy little cousin. It’s also thickened skin, but it forms in a smaller, more concentrated area—often from consistent pressure in one spot.

Corns:

• Have a hard centre (like a little pebble under the skin)

• Can feel sharp or painful, especially when you press on them

• Often show up on the tops or sides of toes where shoes rub

So, while calluses are more about pressure across a wide area, corns are all about pinpoint pressure.

❓Q: What causes them?

A: Both are caused by friction and pressure, but the type and location of that pressure determines whether you’ll get a corn or a callus.

Common culprits include:

• Tight or poorly fitted shoes

• High heels or pointy toes (yes, those cute shoes might be to blame)

• Not wearing socks (friction alert!)

• Lots of walking or running

• Toe deformities like bunions or hammer toes

❓Q: Can they go away on their own?

A: Mild calluses sometimes soften up or fade if you stop whatever’s causing the friction—like switching to better shoes. But corns? Not so much.

Because corns have a core, they usually need a professional touch to be removed safely. Left untreated, they can get more painful and even lead to infections, especially for people with diabetes.

❓Q: Should I treat them myself?

A: We get it—it’s tempting to grab a pumice stone or some over-the-counter corn plasters. But here’s the thing: those quick fixes often do more harm than good.

Corn plasters contain acid that can burn healthy skin and lead to open wounds.

And please—no bathroom surgery with nail scissors! We’ve seen too many infected toes from well-meaning DIY attempts.

Your safest bet? Let the pros handle it.

At Birtley Foot Care, we remove corns and calluses safely, painlessly, and professionally. We’ll also help you figure out why you’re getting them and how to prevent them from coming back.

❓Q: When should I see a podiatrist?

A: If you notice:

• Persistent foot pain

• Skin that looks yellow, thick, or cracked

• A hard bump that feels like you're stepping on a stone

• Skin breakdown or signs of infection

It’s time to come in and let us take a look.

Especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation, don’t wait. Corns and calluses can become serious if not managed properly.

Bottom Line:

Corns and calluses might seem similar, but they’re different enough to need different care. Don’t guess—get expert help and enjoy walking pain-free again.

Want to give your feet a little love? Book an appointment with our friendly team at Birtley Foot Care today. We’ll help you stay on your feet—smoothly and comfortably.