Both corns and calluses are areas of thickened, hardened skin that develop in response to repeated pressure or friction. Corns are typically smaller, have a hard centre and can be painful, particularly when squeezed. They are often found on the tops, sides and between the toes. Calluses are usually larger, develop on weight-bearing areas such as the heel or ball of the foot and are rarely painful. An experienced podiatrist can accurately diagnose the type of thickened skin and rule out other causes such as warts or cysts.