Corns and calluses

Treatment:

Usually, removing the cause of the friction is the only treatment needed. If the corn is a result of a poor fitting shoe, changing shoes will usually eliminate the corn in a period of weeks. Until then, the skin can be protected with corn pads or felt. People with diabetes mellitus need special foot care if these problems develop.

If infection or ulceration of the foot or hand occurs in an area of callus or corn formation, the tissue may need to be removed by a foot specialist or another health care provider.

Expectations (prognosis):

Corns and calluses are rarely serious.

Complications:

• infection or ulceration of the skin

Calling your health care provider:

Apply home treatment and call your health care provider if there are any signs of complications or if a corn or callus becomes infected or inflamed.