Calluses Causes & Risks

Causes

Calluses and corns form as protective pads of skin in response to repeated friction or pressure. Causes include:

Calluses —Any activity that applies repeated friction or pressure to an area of skin, including:

• Weight lifting (hands)
• Using tools (hands)
• Playing a stringed instrument (hands)
• Running long distances (feet)
• Kneeling to lay carpet or tile (knees)
• Walking on hard surfaces without shoes (feet)

Corns —Any activity or condition that applies repeated friction or pressure to the toes, including:

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes
• Bunching of socks around toes
• Socks with seams that rub against the toes
• Foot abnormality causing a protrusion that rubs against footwear

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.

• Professions or physical activities that cause repeated friction or pressure on the skin
• Wearing ill-fitting footwear