Conditions
Hard Skin, Corns & Calluses
Hard skin, corns, and callus are very common foot problems caused by repeated pressure and friction. While the body produces hard skin to protect itself, excessive build-up can become painful, unsightly, and may lead to cracking or infection if left untreated.
At Footworks Podiatry, we provide safe, effective treatment to relieve discomfort and restore the health of your skin.
What Are Corns and Callus?
Callus is a broad, thickened area of hard skin that develops on weight-bearing parts of the foot, such as the heels or balls of the feet.
Corns are smaller, more localised areas of hard skin that often form over bony areas or between the toes. They can feel like you are “walking on a pebble” and may be particularly painful when pressure is applied.
Common causes include:
- Ill-fitting footwear
- Foot deformities (such as bunions or hammer toes)
- Abnormal foot mechanics or gait
- High activity levels
- Dry skin
- Walking barefoot or in thin-soled shoes
Professional Treatment
Our podiatrists carefully remove excess hard skin and corns using sterile instruments. This procedure is:
- Quick and usually painless
- Highly effective at relieving pressure and discomfort
- Safe when performed by a qualified professional
- Immediate in improving comfort when walking
Self-treatment using blades or corn plasters is not recommended, as this can damage healthy skin and increase the risk of infection.
Ongoing Care and Prevention
Because hard skin forms in response to pressure, it may return unless the underlying cause is addressed. We will advise you on strategies to help prevent recurrence, which may include:
- Footwear advice to reduce pressure and friction
- Protective padding or silicone devices
- Moisturising treatments for dry skin
- Orthoses (custom insoles) if abnormal foot mechanics are contributing
- Regular maintenance appointments
Cracked Heels
Severely dry or thickened skin around the heels can split, leading to painful cracks (fissures). These can sometimes bleed and may become infected. Professional treatment can safely reduce thick skin and promote healing.
Who Should Seek Professional Care?
Professional podiatry treatment is particularly important if you:
- Have diabetes
- Have poor circulation
- Have reduced sensation in your feet
- Experience recurrent painful corns or callus
- Are unable to manage your own foot care safely
