Professional Removal of Painful Hard Skin
Corns and callus are areas of thickened skin that develop in response to pressure and friction. Callus is usually larger, flatter hard skin, while corns are smaller, more focused “plugs” of hard skin that can feel like you’re walking on a stone. They commonly appear on the balls of the feet, heels, tops and sides of toes, or between the toes. These problems can cause burning, aching or sharp pain, and may affect the way you walk. They often recur if the underlying cause isn’t addressed.
How We Assess Corns and Callus
At your appointment, your podiatrist will:
- Examine the size, depth and location of corns and hard skin
- Check for underlying deformities (hammer toes, bunions, prominent joints)
- Assess footwear, foot posture and, if needed, the way you walk
- Look for signs of skin breakdown, infection or ulcer risk
- Review your medical history, including diabetes or circulation problems
This helps us find the cause of the excess pressure, not just treat the surface problem.
Treatment and Hard Skin Removal
We offer safe, gentle treatment to relieve discomfort:
Professional Reduction
- Carefully remove callus and corns with sterile, specialist instruments
- Smooth the skin for greater comfort in shoes and when walking
- Provide almost immediate pain relief in most cases
Pressure Redistribution and Protection
- Use padding or strapping to offload painful areas
- Recommend toe props, separators or cushioning devices
- Advise on insoles or orthoses to spread pressure more evenly
Footwear and Skin Care Advice
- Suggest footwear styles that reduce rubbing and pressure
- Advise on suitable socks and materials to minimise friction
- Recommend creams and simple filing routines for home care
Over‑the‑counter corn plasters and acid treatments can damage healthy skin and are especially risky if you have diabetes, poor circulation or reduced sensation. Professional care is safer and more controlled.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Because the underlying pressure often remains, corns and callus commonly recur. Many people benefit from regular podiatry. We may suggest:
- Routine visits every few weeks or months for safe reduction
- Monitoring for new pain, colour changes or skin breakdown
- A personalised home care plan to slow build‑up between visits
- Extra protection and close monitoring if you have diabetes or circulation issues
Our aim is to relieve pain quickly, make walking more comfortable and help keep your skin healthy in the long term.
