Corns And Callus Information From Our Experts

What Causes Corns and Calluses?

Corns and calluses form as the skin's natural response to pressure and friction, which typically occurs between our feet's natural bony prominences and some type of outside surface, such as shoes or the ground. That's why they often develop on weight-bearing areas of the feet, such as the heels, balls of the feet, and toes. Some of the most common causes include:

• Ill-fitting shoes – Tight or high-heeled shoes can create excessive pressure, while loose shoes may allow the foot to slide inside the shoe and cause rubbing or friction. A simple quick fix is to tie the laces tight around the ankles (heel lock lacing technique)

• Deformities of the foot – Conditions like hammertoes, bunions, cavus (high arch) feet, or flat feet can lead to uneven weight distribution, increasing the likelihood of callus formation.

• High activity levels – Runners, athletes, and individuals who spend long hours on their feet such as for work are more prone to developing corns and calluses.

• Loss of natural cushioning – As we age, the protective fat pads on our feet thin out, making calluses more common.

At-Home Treatment Options

For those looking for non-invasive ways to manage corns and calluses at home, several options can help reduce discomfort and prevent recurrence:

• Pumice Stone – Gently rubbing a pumice stone over the affected area after soaking your feet in warm water can help reduce thickened skin.

• Amopé Electronic Callus Removal Tool – This battery-operated tool provides an effortless way to buff away calluses and smooth rough skin.

• PedEgg – A manual foot file designed to remove layers of dead skin and calluses safely and effectively.

• Moisturizing Creams – Keeping feet well-moisturized with urea-based or salicylic acid-containing creams can help soften calluses and prevent cracking. Sometimes for feet that have a lot of calluses and dry skin, combining any over the counter moisturizer with Vaseline and wrapping the feet in Saran wrap overnight could significantly soften them by the morning. Some people with excessive dry skin need to do this on a routine basis. This is especially common in places with dry weather such as New Mexico.

• Proper Footwear – Wearing well-fitted, cushioned shoes with adequate arch support can minimize pressure and friction on the feet. Consider going to our favorite shoe store in person for a fitting at Heart and Sole Sports.

Immediate Relief with Professional Debridement

For patients experiencing pain from corns and calluses, professional debridement is an excellent option. Our podiatrists use specialized instruments to carefully remove the thickened skin, providing instant relief and improving foot comfort. Unlike at-home treatments, professional debridement ensures that the corn or callus is safely and effectively reduced without the risk of injury or infection.

Long-Term Treatment Options

While debridement offers immediate relief, addressing the underlying causes of corns and calluses is essential for long-term management. Our clinic provides several options tailored to each patient’s needs:

• Custom Orthotics – Prescription orthotics can help redistribute pressure across the foot, preventing excessive friction and callus formation.

• Footwear Recommendations – Wearing properly fitted, supportive shoes can significantly reduce the recurrence of corns and calluses.

• Minimally Invasive Surgery – For patients with structural deformities such as bunions or hammertoes, corrective surgery can provide a permanent solution. Many of these procedures are minimally invasive, allowing for faster recovery and less discomfort.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you experience persistent pain, redness, or swelling associated with corns and calluses, it’s important to consult a podiatrist. Self-treatment methods, such as using over-the-counter corn removers, can sometimes cause more harm than good, particularly for individuals with diabetes or circulation problems.

At our clinic, we are committed to providing expert foot care that alleviates pain and improves mobility. Whether you need immediate relief through debridement or a long-term solution such as surgery or orthotics, we are here to help you take the next step toward healthier, more comfortable feet.

Don’t let persistent foot pain prevent you from living your best life. Request a consultation today by calling the office at (505) 247-4164 or clicking the online booking tool. We are available for same-day appointments in Albuquerque and Santa Fe.