Callus and Corn Removal in Toronto

Callus & Corn Removal: How to Get Relief for Sore, Hard Skin

If thick, hardened skin on your feet makes walking painful, you’re not alone. Calluses and corns affect over 60% of adults at some point, causing discomfort that ranges from mild irritation to debilitating pain.

callus removal toronto

What Are Calluses and Corns?

Calluses and corns are thickened skin areas that develop in response to repeated friction or pressure. While similar, they require different management approaches:

 

Callus Characteristics:

 

  • Location: Weight-bearing areas (balls of feet, heels, palms)
  • Appearance:
      • Yellowish, waxy texture
      • Diffuse edges blending into normal skin
      • May crack if severely dry
  • Pain Level:
      • Usually painless unless fissured
      • Can cause burning sensations during prolonged standing

Why Do They Develop?

Your skin thickens to protect against mechanical stress caused by:

 

  1. Footwear Issues
      • Narrow toe boxes (e.g., high heels, dress shoes)
      • Worn-out soles losing shock absorption
      • Seam placement rubbing against bony prominences
  2. Biomechanical Factors
      • High arches: Excess pressure on balls of feet
      • Overpronation: Altered weight distribution
      • Bunions/Hammertoes: Abnormal bone protrusions
  3. Systemic Contributors
      • Diabetes: Reduced sensation delays problem detection
      • Autoimmune conditions: Psoriasis/eczema increase vulnerability
      • Aging: Thinner skin + fat pad atrophy (common after 60)

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Corn Variations

Hard Corns

  • Location: Toe tops or sides
  • Features: Dense core with inflamed border

Soft Corns

  • Location: Between toes
  • Features: White, macerated appearance

Seed Corns

  • Location: Weight-bearing areas
  • Features: Cluster-like, often painless

Vascular Corns

  • Location: Deep tissue layers
  • Features: Contain blood vessels, bleed easily
chiropody care for calluses

Who’s Most at Risk?

Runners

  • Risk: Repetitive forefoot impact
  • Tip: Rotate between 2-3 pairs of shoes

Healthcare Workers

  • Risk: 12+ hour shifts
  • Tip: Use compression socks

Diabetics

  • Risk: Neuropathy
  • Tip: Inspect feet daily

Dancers

  • Risk: Tight ballet shoes
  • Tip: Apply lambswool between toes

Construction Workers

  • Risk: Long hours on hard surfaces
  • Tip: Use anti-fatigue mats

Research Insights: Why Treatment Matters

  • Untreated calluses increase ulcer risk by 11x in diabetics (Journal of Foot and Ankle Research)
  • Custom orthotics reduce recurrence by 68% (APMA Clinical Guidelines)
  • Laser therapy is 89% effective for stubborn corns (Podiatry Today)

What Our Customers Say

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I recently visited Footcare on Bay to get custom orthotics, and they’ve been life-changing. Dr. Ray took the time to carefully assess my needs, explain everything in detail, and answer all of my questions. The orthotics I received have made a huge difference in my daily life—my foot pain is practically gone, and I feel so much more comfortable whether I’m walking, standing, or exercising. If you’re looking for quality care and real results, Footcare on Bay is the place to go.

Jessica Hagel

Customer
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A year ago, I dropped a coffee cup on my toe, and it turned into a pain-in-the-toe nightmare with an ingrown toenail. After several appointments with Dr. John Ray, we finally decided to "take care of it" once and for all. I was terrified - like, sweaty-palms, full-on panic mode- but Dr. Ray was a total pro. 

I’m so thankful for Dr. Ray’s skill and ability to make me feel relaxed and comfortable. Highly recommend him to anyone who needs toe TLC (and a calming presence to stop you from hyperventilating in the chair).

Stephanie Schreiber

Customer
{

I have had an aggressive form of an ingrown toenail for many years. I've been to many hospitals, many hours of waiting & no doctor would help me. Dr. Ray did a awesome job, I highly recommend him.

S Wright

Customer
{

My father has been to multiple foot clinics and his foot pain still persisted. Was recommended by one of his friends and I brought him in. I explained the frustrations to the doctor there and I appreciate his honesty and care for my father. He tried other methods to help with recovery and 3 weeks in, so far so good.
Highly recommended!

JayYoo

Customer
{

I hobbled into the clinic with terrible pain in my left foot . After 8 hours of Dr Ray's treatment, l was pain-free and walking normally. I am very grateful for Dr. Ray's expertise and care.

Peggy Dodds

Customer
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I came in a few weeks a go regarding my severe heel pain that I’ve been dealing with for over a year now. I saw Dr. Ray who examined my issue and scheduled me for a series of shockwave treatments followed by fitting for Custom Orthotics. I now walk pain free! Highly recommend for anyone suffering from foot pain.

Edward Ryan

Customer
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I had heel pain and Dr. Ray made my Orthotics and it fixed my foot pain. Excellent service!

Tha T

Customer
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After a really bad experience at another clinic, I came here for orthotics and although I don’t have them yet, it was a great experience and look forward to working with this place!.

Liza Butcher

Customer
{

I have been coming for years to Footcare on Bay for my orthotics. Despite a recent change in ownership, their commitment to customer service and satisfaction continues to be unparalleled. If there is an issue with your orthotic, they will move heaven and earth to make it right. That kind of customer service is rare these days. Great orthodics, great staff, great customer service. If you need orthotics, this is the place to get them.

Noel Ramsey

Customer

Advanced Clinical Treatments

1. Precision Debridement

  • Blade types:
    • #10 scalpel for calluses
    • Beaver mini-blade for corns
  • Safety guidelines:
    • Use laser-only techniques for diabetic patients
    • Use electrocautery for patients on blood thinners

2. Custom Orthotics

  • 3D-printed to match your pressure points
  • Materials:
    • Polypropylene for firmness
    • Poron® for cushioning

3. Specialized Therapies

  • Laser Ablation:
    • Uses 1470nm wavelength for targeted removal
    • Typically requires 2–3 sessions with 90% success rate
  • Cryotherapy:
    • Involves liquid nitrogen application
    • Especially effective for vascular corns

4. Surgical Options

  • Bone Reshaping:
    • Hammertoe correction
    • Bunion removal
  • Nerve Decompression:
    • Recommended for corns linked to Morton’s neuroma

When to Seek Professional Help

Emergency Signs

Pus or discharge with foul odor

Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)

Sudden numbness in the affected area

What to Expect from a Podiatric Evaluation

  1. Gait analysis with computerized pressure mapping
  2. Skin biopsy to rule out rare conditions like porokeratosis
  3. X-rays to check for underlying bone issues such as spurs

Prevention Strategies

Choosing the Right Footwear

For Running:

  • Look for 8mm heel-toe drop and rocker sole design

For Work:

  • Ensure ASTM F2413 rating with metatarsal protection

For Dress Wear:

  • Opt for wide toe boxes and heels under 2 inches

For Walking:

  • Use shoes with removable insoles and Vibram® soles

Daily Maintenance Routine

Morning:

  • Apply urea 20% + salicylic acid 2% moisturizer
  • Use toe separators if needed

Midday:

  • Perform 3 sets of towel scrunches (10 reps each)
  • Rotate ankles both clockwise and counterclockwise

Night:

  • Massage feet with arnica-infused oil
  • Wear silver-infused socks for antimicrobial benefits

What Patients Ask Us Most

Can I use duct tape to suffocate corns?

L
K

No-this outdated method traps moisture, increasing infection risks.

Are pedicure tools safe for callus removal?

L
K

Only if autoclave-sterilized. Most saloons reuse files illegally.

Why do my corns bleed when removed?

L
K

You’ve likely exposed dermal layers. Seek immediate podiatric care.

Can calluses turn cancerous?

L
K

Extremely rare. Biopsies confirm if lesions appear atypical.

How often should I see a podiatrist for calluses?

L
K

Every 3-6 months if diabetic; annually otherwise.

Are gel inserts better than foam?

L
K

Gel redistributes pressure more effectively for most foot types.

Can children develop corns?

L
K

Yes-often from hand-me-down shoes or genetic conditions.

Are OTC corn removers safe for diabetics?

L
K

Never use without podiatric approval-high ulceration risks.

Can calluses be prevented permanently?

L
K

With custom orthotics and proper footwear, recurrence plummets.

Why Professional Care Matters

Left untreated, calluses/corns can lead to:

  • Chronic pain alters gait mechanics
  • Diabetic ulcers requiring amputation
  • Joint degeneration from compensatory movements
  • Systemic infections in immunocompromised patients

Take Action Today: Your Path to Healthy Feet

Our podiatry team combines cutting-edge removal techniques with personalized prevention plans tailored to your foot structure and lifestyle.

End Foot Pain. Start Living Comfortably.

Get expert treatment for foot pain, nail issues, and skin conditions - all in one place.

Book your appointment today and feel the difference.

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