Corns & Calluses
Thickened areas of skin that develop due to repeated friction, pressure or irritation — the body’s natural way of protecting itself from excessive rubbing. Uncomfortable, but very treatable.
What is a callus?
A callus is a thickened, hardened area of skin that forms in response to repeated friction, pressure or irritation — the body’s natural defence mechanism to protect the skin from damage. Unlike corns, which are smaller and more concentrated, calluses are usually larger, have a diffuse border, and are less painful. They commonly develop on weight-bearing areas like the heels, balls of the feet and sides of the toes. While generally harmless, they can cause discomfort or pain if they become too thick or are left untreated.
Why corns and calluses develop
Calluses develop as a protective mechanism when the skin experiences excessive pressure or friction. Causes can be as simple as improper footwear — shoes that are too tight, too loose, or excessive use of high heels. Athletes, avid walkers and runners are especially prone due to repeated friction. Flat feet or high arches that affect weight distribution can also increase pressure on certain areas. Extra care should be taken by those with diabetes, as poor circulation can make calluses more prone to infection.
How Chiltern Wellbeing can help
Our specialist podiatrists can safely trim or shave away thickened skin using a sterile scalpel — a process called debridement that relieves pressure and pain instantly. For stubborn corns we recommend Advanced CuraCorn treatment which provides long lasting pain relief by injecting hyaluronic acid to replace the natural cushioning that has been lost beneath the corn, helping to reduce pressure on the affected area. Where friction or pressure from footwear is the cause, we may suggest padding such as foam cushions, felt pads or gel inserts, and properly fitting shoes with a wide toe box — addressing both the symptoms and the underlying causes for long-term relief.
CuraCorn Treatment
If you're struggling with painful corns that keep returning despite regular treatment, CuraCorn® offers an innovative solution that goes beyond simply removing the hard skin. Unlike traditional corn treatments, CuraCorn uses hyaluronic acid to replace the natural cushioning that has been lost beneath the corn, helping to reduce pressure on the affected area. By restoring this cushioning, the treatment can provide long-lasting relief from painful corns and significantly reduce the likelihood of them returning in suitable patients. Our experienced podiatrists carry out a comprehensive assessment to determine whether CuraCorn is the right treatment for you. If you're looking for an effective treatment for painful corns in Hayes, Hillingdon, Uxbridge, Buckinghamshire or West London, our team can help you walk more comfortably and get back to doing the things you love with less pain.
Symptoms
- Hard, thickened or rough patches of skin
- Dull aching pain when walking or standing
- Dry, waxy or flaky areas on the soles
- Deep callus that can crack, split or bleed
Treatments we offer
- Professional debridement (precise trimming)
- Padding & offloading to reduce pressure
- Custom orthotics to redistribute load
- Footwear advice & urea-based moisturisers