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Corns and calluses

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Definition:

Corns and calluses are thickened layers of skin caused by repeated pressure or friction.

Alternative Names:

Calluses and corns

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.

• Review Date: 5/6/2007
• Reviewed By: Thomas N. Joseph, MD, Private Practice specializing in Orthopaedics, subspecialty Foot and Ankle, Camden Bone & Joint, Camden, SC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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