Corn and Callus Treatment Singapore

Corns and calluses are thickened layers of skin that form in regions where there is a lot of pressure, friction, and irritation. They are commonly found on the foot, toes, hands, and fingers.

While they may appear unsightly, they are not harmful and can be quickly addressed if they cause pain. Calluses and corns normally disappear without treatment if the excessive weight-bearing forces and high pressure acting on the foot are removed to provide long-term relief.

However, corns and calluses can be a problem with certain illnesses like diabetic neuropathy and peripheral arterial disease. If you have corns or calluses with one of these two conditions, you should see our trained podiatrist instead of treating them yourself. If left untreated, it may lead to serious foot conditions.

how corns and calluses form
how corns and calluses form 3

Corns

A hard ‘corn’ can form if pressure is concentrated in a small location, usually in non-weight-bearing areas. They are concentrated areas of dry, hard skin about the size of a pea that may cause inflammation, resulting in tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Meanwhile, ‘soft’ corns occur where the skin is moist from sweat or inadequate drying. Thus, they’re usually found between your toes and can be extremely painful. They resemble hard corns that have been softened by continuous exposure to moisture.

Other types include seed corns, vascular corns, and fibrous corns, which require professional help and skin corn treatment.

Calluses

Calluses are larger than corns and develop as a result of friction caused by shoes or walking barefoot. They are sections of thick skin that occur due to high friction or pressure.

They develop most frequently on the soles and balls of the feet because these areas are subjected to the most ground pressure.

One common area for calluses is the heel, and without proper callus treatment, these could develop into foot sores.

Risk Factors For Corns and Calluses

Virtually anyone can develop calluses and corns. In fact, corns and calluses impact more people than any other type of foot issue.

That said, some demographics may be more prone to developing these conditions: 

  • Older people’s feet usually have less fatty tissue and flexibility, causing calluses to form in areas with a lack of padding.
  • Individuals who spend long hours standing or walking, such as retail workers, healthcare professionals, or those in the hospitality industry, often experience a buildup of thickened skin due to constant pressure and friction.
  • Those with changes in the shape of their foot or protrusions on their feet are also at higher risk. These irregularities can cause the skin to rub against footwear, increasing the likelihood of painful corns.

While most corns and calluses can be managed conservatively, those with underlying conditions like diabetes or poor circulation should seek professional foot care. A trained podiatrist can provide treatment to minimise the risk of complications and ensure proper care.

How Much Does Corn and Callus Removal Treatment Cost?

The cost of professional corn and callus removal treatment in Singapore typically ranges from $100 to $150, depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment required.

For a detailed breakdown, please refer to our podiatry fees and charges.

Our Corn and Callus Treatment Process

For many individuals, removing foot corns and calluses on their own can be difficult. Over-the-counter treatments don’t always deliver consistent results, and what works for one person may not work for another.

That’s where professional care makes a difference.

Consultation

We begin with a comprehensive consultation to understand your symptoms, lifestyle habits, footwear choices, and medical history. This helps us assess contributing factors such as prolonged pressure, foot deformities, or underlying health conditions like diabetes.

Our podiatrist in Singapore will also explain the differences between corns and calluses and recommend the most suitable treatment, depending on your specific needs.

Physical Examination

Next, our podiatrist will carry out a physical examination to determine the type of condition you are facing. Because calluses are often signs of other issues, we assess pressure distribution across your foot, as foot calluses are frequently linked to mechanical imbalances. 

By understanding the underlying factors, we can develop a treatment plan that not only removes the corn or callus but also minimises the risk of it recurring.

Treatment

We then begin customising your management plan. We will provide education about your condition and address any questions or concerns you may have during your consultation.

We utilise various podiatric equipment, such as water spray drills and vacuum suction drills, during the removal process. These are used to gently trim corns and scrape calluses, as well as address pain symptoms. This process eliminates the hardened and thick skin on the foot without causing harm to the surrounding skin or blood vessels.

In some cases, we may also incorporate the application of topical ointments. This is particularly beneficial for corns, as they are prone to ulceration and infection. The ointment aids in slowing down or mitigating the growth of corns.

Recovery & Prevention

Our care doesn’t end after the treatment session. We equip you with personalised foot care advice to reduce recurrence and keep your feet healthy. This includes proper footwear guidance to reduce friction and pressure, as well as tips for daily foot hygiene. We also provide custom orthotic insoles to help support your feet when wearing footwear.

Preventive strategies are essential, especially for individuals prone to plantar calluses, heel calluses, or other hard skin foot conditions. Our goal is not only to address current issues with proper treatment but also to minimise the likelihood of future problems through ongoing care and support.

Healthy Feet Begins At Dr Foot Podiatry Clinic

At Dr Foot Podiatry Clinic, we provide a range of treatment options aimed at helping individuals manage various foot conditions, such as corns, calluses, ingrown nails, and more.

Our podiatrists incorporate technology alongside evidence-based podiatric techniques to ensure minimal pain during the procedure while optimising your recovery process.

We’re here to help you take the next step toward improving your foot health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Corn and Callus Treatment

What is the difference between corns & calluses?

Corns and calluses are both areas of thickened skin that develop due to repeated pressure or friction, but they differ in appearance and location.

  • Corns are typically small, round, and may have a hard centre surrounded by inflamed skin. They often form on non-weight-bearing areas like the tops or sides of toes.
  • Calluses are generally larger, broader, and less defined in shape. They usually develop in weight-bearing areas such as the soles of the feet.

Is corn or callus removal treatment painful?

Corn or callus removal is generally well-tolerated and involves minimal discomfort. Most procedures are performed gently, though some sensitivity may be felt if the area is already tender.

Will corn or calluses come back after treatment?

Corns and calluses can return if the underlying cause, such as poorly fitting footwear, abnormal gait, or foot deformities, is not addressed. Preventive care, such as wearing proper footwear, undergoing regular foot assessments, and wearing pressure relief insoles, can help reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

Will removing a corn leave a hole in the foot?

Professional corn removal does not create a hole in the foot. The procedure involves carefully trimming the thickened skin to reduce pressure and discomfort, while preserving the healthy skin underneath.

Are corns and calluses dangerous for people with diabetes?

Yes, individuals with diabetes should take special care when dealing with corns and calluses. Due to reduced sensation and slower healing, these areas of thickened skin can increase the risk of complications if not managed properly. It is advisable for people with diabetes to seek professional podiatric care rather than attempting self-treatment.