Calluses and corns · hyperkeratosis.

Treatment of Calluses and Corns on the Feet in Valencia | Dr Cristina Koziy

Calluses and corns on the feet are one of the most common reasons for consulting a podiatrist. Although they may seem like a minor problem, they can cause severe pain when walking and, in some cases, lead to more serious complications. Dr Cristina Koziy offers specialised podiatric treatment in Valencia to remove calluses and corns safely and effectively.

What are corns and calluses

As a graduate in Podiatry from the Catholic University of Valencia, I would like to explain that corns and calluses are thickened areas of skin caused by repeated pressure or friction. However, it is important to distinguish between several types:

• Helomas: These are focal calluses that develop in areas of intense pressure. They can be hard (heloma duro) or soft (heloma molle). The latter tend to appear between the toes and are more painful.
• Hyperkeratosis: This is a diffuse thickening of the skin, without a defined centre, which appears in areas of constant friction.
• Plantar wart: Although sometimes confused with a callus, a plantar wart is a lesion caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). It is characterised by the presence of black dots on its surface, which are thrombosed capillaries, and does not have the hard core typical of a callus.

It is essential to make a correct diagnosis in order to apply the appropriate treatment.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms experienced by patients with corns and calluses include:

• Pain when walking: A sensation of discomfort or burning in the affected area, which can make walking difficult.
• Lump-like sensation: A hard lump or bump under the skin that causes discomfort when walking.
• Thickened skin: Areas of thick, dry skin that may crack.
• Redness and inflammation: Mild swelling around the corn or callus.
• Discomfort with footwear: Difficulty wearing certain shoes due to pressure on the affected area.

Causes

The main causes of corns and calluses on the feet are:

1. Unsuitable footwear: Shoes that are too tight, stiff or lack support, causing constant friction.
2. Friction and rubbing: Repetitive movements that irritate the skin.
3. Foot deformities: Conditions such as bunions, hammer toes or flat feet that alter pressure distribution.
4. Being overweight: This increases the load on the feet, making these conditions more likely to occur.
5. Sporting activity: Sports involving high impact or pressure on the feet without suitable footwear.

Treatment of corns and calluses in Valencia

At my practice in Valencia, I offer a comprehensive treatment to safely and effectively remove corns and calluses. The process includes:

• Chiropody using sterile instruments: I use specialised, sterilised tools to remove the thickened tissue without causing pain.
• Pain-free biomechanical assessment: I analyse your gait and the structure of your foot to detect any abnormalities that may be causing the formation of corns.
• Custom orthopaedic insoles: I design and fit insoles that redistribute pressure and prevent the recurrence of calluses.

This combined approach guarantees long-lasting relief and improves overall foot health.

When to seek treatment as soon as possible

It is essential to seek consultation as soon as possible in the following cases, especially if you are diabetic or have circulatory problems:

• Diabetic patients or those with poor circulation: They are at greater risk of complications and require urgent care.
• Wounds that won’t heal: Calluses that ulcerate or have open sores require immediate assessment.
• Recurrent corns: If they reappear frequently, this is a sign that the underlying cause is not being treated correctly.
• Severe daily pain: When pain limits mobility or affects quality of life.

For more information on specific care for diabetic feet, please visit the page dedicated to diabetic feet.

Can I remove corns at home?

I understand that many patients try to treat themselves at home, but I must warn you that this is not always safe or effective:

• Foot files and pumice stones: These are useful for removing mild calluses in healthy people, provided they are used carefully and not excessively.
• Callus removers and acids: I do not recommend their use, especially in people with diabetes, as they can cause burns, cuts and infections.
• Blades or razors: These are very risky and can cause serious injuries.

If you have any doubts or problems with ingrown toenails or complicated injuries, visit the ingrown toenails section for more information and professional help.

Treatment of corns and calluses in Valencia

My practice in Valencia specialises in the treatment of corns and calluses with a preventive and personalised approach.

• Safe and pain-free removal of corns and calluses.
• Personalised advice on daily foot care.
• Design of orthopaedic insoles to correct biomechanics.

If you’re looking for treatment for corns on your feet in Valencia, or to have calluses removed by a podiatrist in Valencia, at my practice you’ll find professional treatment tailored to your needs.

Frequently asked questions

Do corns come back after treatment?

Calluses may reappear if the underlying cause is not addressed, such as ill-fitting footwear or biomechanical issues. That is why, in addition to removing them, I analyse your gait to prevent their recurrence.

Does the treatment for corns hurt?

No. Professional podiatry treatment is painless and is carried out using specialised instruments that allow the hardened tissue to be removed without damaging healthy skin.

How often should I have calluses removed?

It depends on the individual, but many patients need a check-up every 6–8 weeks to keep their feet comfortable and prevent new calluses from forming.

If you have corns or calluses on your feet and live in Valencia

Dr Cristina Koziy offers professional, pain-free treatment. Visit https://www.drakoziy.es to book your appointment.