If the corn or callus is very painful or if the person has diabetes, fragile skin, or circulatory problems, it is best to consult a doctor or a podiatrist, who is specialized in foot care. The doctor will examine the feet, ask the person about their lifestyle, and they may check their footwear. A podiatrist, or foot doctor, may remove some of the hard skin that surrounds the corn so that the center of it can be removed. After trimming the skin, the doctor may apply a patch with salicylic acid. The patient will need to replace the patch periodically. A pumice stone or metal nail file is usually used to rub away dead skin before applying a new patch. If there is infection or a risk of infection, the doctor may prescribe antibiotic ointment. Red and swollen skin around the corn or callus can indicate an infection. If the doctor suspects there may be an underlying bone structure problem, they may refer the patient for an x-ray, and possibly surgery.
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