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Corns and calluses
Definition:
Corns and calluses are thickened layers of skin caused by repeated pressure or friction.
Alternative Names:
Calluses and corns Text Continues Below
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Corns and calluses are caused by pressure or friction on skin. A corn is thickened skin on the top or side of a toe, usually from shoes that do not fit properly. A callus is thickened skin on your hands or the soles of your feet. The thickening of the skin is a protective reaction. For example, farmers and rowers get callused hands that prevent them from getting painful blisters. People with bunions often develop a callus over the bunion because it rubs against the shoe. Neither corns nor calluses are serious conditions. References:
Boulton AJ. Pressure and the diabetic foot: clinical science and offloading techniques. Am J Surg. 2004; 187(5A): 17S-24S. Freeman DB. Corns and calluses resulting from mechanical hyperkeratosis. Am Fam Physician. 2002; 65(11): 2277-2280. Pinzur MS. Guidelines for diabetic foot care: recommendations endorsed by the Diabetes Committee of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society. Foot Ankle Int. 2005; 26(1): 113-119.
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