Difference Between Corn And Callus And Bunion
If you’ve ever had any kind of foot pain, you know how uncomfortable it can be. But sometimes it’s not immediately clear what’s causing the pain. For example, corns, calluses, and bunions can all cause discomfort in the feet, but they’re not the same thing. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these three common foot conditions.
What is a Corn?
A corn is a small, thickened area of skin that forms on the feet or toes. It’s usually caused by repeated friction or pressure in that area. Corns can be hard or soft, and they can be painful when pressed. They can also have a dry, flaky appearance.
There are two types of corns:
- Hard corns: These are small, round patches of thickened skin that usually form on the tops of the toes or on the outer side of the little toe. Hard corns are often caused by tight-fitting shoes or high heels.
- Soft corns: These are whitish, rubbery bumps that usually form between the toes. Soft corns are often caused by moisture from sweat or wearing shoes that don’t fit properly.
What is a Callus?
A callus is another thickened area of skin that can form on the feet or hands. Calluses are larger than corns, and they are usually painless. They can have a yellowish or grayish appearance, and they often form on the bottom of the feet or on the palms of the hands.
Calluses are caused by repeated friction or pressure, and they are often seen in people who walk or stand for long periods of time. They can also form as a protective response to a bone that’s out of alignment.
What is a Bunion?
A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. Bunions are often painful, and they can make it difficult to wear shoes or walk comfortably. They can also cause the big toe to drift toward the other toes.
To treat a bunion, you can wear shoes that have a wide, deep toe box to accommodate the bunion. You can also use over-the-counter pads or splints to help reduce pain and realign the joint. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the joint.
Conclusion
While corns, calluses, and bunions are all foot conditions that can cause discomfort, they are not the same thing. Corns are small, thickened areas of skin that are caused by repeated friction or pressure, while calluses are larger and usually painless. Bunions are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe, and they can cause pain and difficulty walking. If you’re experiencing foot pain or discomfort, it’s a good idea to see a podiatrist to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
