Corns & Callouses
Expert corn and callus removal and prevention at Waikato Podiatry clinic
Painful corns and calluses are among the most common foot problems we see at Waikato Podiatry Clinic. While they may seem like minor nuisances, these thickened patches of skin can significantly impact your daily comfort and mobility. The good news? Professional treatment provides immediate relief, and with the right prevention strategies, you can reduce their recurrence and stay comfortable for longer.
What are corns?
Corns (heloma) are multiplied skin cells at a focal point of pressure. They usually occur around the joints of toes, in between toes from rubbing, as well as on the soles of the feet where there is excess pressure. They may also occur under a section of callus. Essentially, corns are a mass of dead skin cells within a callus. The body considers the core as a foreign body and can be very painful.
Corn treatment
Corn pads from pharmaceutical companies should be avoided because the acid on the pads can cause damage to healthy tissue surrounding the corn. Corns require skilled removal with sterile instruments, which is usually painless. We call this debridement and “enucleation” of the core. At Waikato Podiatry we can remove your corn and supply you with the means to reduce the rate of recurrence keeping you comfortable for longer. We have specialised products to help reduce the amount of friction and pressure upon a joint, as well as range of creams that may help with your problem. Speak to us about products and offloading for pressure redistribution as well as appropriate fitting footwear.
What are callouses?
Callouses are a thickening of the stratum corneum (the outer most layer of the epidermis/skin). Callouses are caused by excessive pressure and friction; often due to foot shape and footwear. Because the human body is resilient and will try to protect you from pressure, it will lay down more skin to try and protect the area from injury. However, as the skin layers build up, the pressure is increased and therefore may result in pain or discomfort. Callouses can affect anyone especially if you are active!
Treatment for callouses
Callouses can be treated by scalpel debridement (the skilled removal by your podiatrist), which can reduce the pain by a significant amount. In most patients, this is usually sufficient. However, speak to us if you are interested in ways of reducing pressure from the area to reduce the reocurrence. Our interventions include specific types of padding, insole modification, footwear recommendations and orthotic intervention.
Professional foot care
Attempting to remove corns or calluses yourself using blades, files, or chemical treatments carries significant risks. Improper technique can lead to cuts, infections, or deeper tissue damage. This is particularly dangerous for individuals with diabetes, circulatory problems, or reduced sensation in their feet, where minor injuries can develop into serious complications.
Professional podiatric treatment ensures safe, effective removal using sterile instruments and proper technique. Beyond immediate relief, podiatrists can identify the underlying causes of corn and callus formation and implement strategies to prevent recurrence. This comprehensive approach addresses not just the symptoms, but the factors creating the problem in the first place.
Taking the next step
Corns and calluses don't have to be a permanent source of discomfort in your life. With professional treatment and appropriate preventive care, you can enjoy comfortable, pain-free feet whether you're standing all day at work, pursuing athletic activities, or simply going about your daily routine.
The experienced team at Waikato Podiatry Clinic specialises in treating corns and calluses with gentle, effective techniques that provide immediate relief. We take the time to understand your individual circumstances, assess your foot structure and biomechanics, and develop a personalised treatment plan that addresses both current problems and future prevention.
Don't let painful corns or calluses limit your activities or diminish your quality of life. Professional treatment is quick, effective, and provides lasting results when combined with appropriate preventive measures.
