The causes of calluses and corns are similar, and they often develop as a result of wearing ill-fitting shoes or engaging in activities that involve repetitive pressure or friction on the skin. Calluses may also develop as a result of walking barefoot or wearing high heels, while corn can be caused by wearing tight or narrow shoes. In some cases, calluses and corns can be a sign of an underlying foot condition, such as a bone deformity or a skin infection. Signs and symptoms include: - Areas of thick, rough skin - A hardened raised bump - Tenderness or pain under the skin - Flaky, dry, or waxy skin Corns are smaller and deeper than calluses, with a firm center surrounded by swollen skin. They hurt when pressed on. Hard corns usually form on the tops of the toes or the outer edges of the little toes. Soft corns tend to form between the toes. Calluses are rarely painful and are more likely to form on pressure points, such as the heels, soles, palms, and knees. They vary in size and shape and are usually larger than corns. Contact your doctor if the corn or callus is very painful or inflamed. If you have diabetes or poor circulation, talk to your doctor before treating corns or calluses yourself. This is important because even minor injuries to your feet can lead to infected open sores (sores).