Callus, << KAL uhs, >> is a hardening and thickening of the skin. It often forms on the feet and hands. Poorly fitted shoes can cause calluses on the heels and soles of the feet. A corn is a special kind of callus that is usually found on the feet (see Corn). Hand calluses result from prolonged rubbing on a hard object, such as a rake or a tennis racket. Many calluses can be treated by soaking them in water and then applying a salicylic-acid solution or other softening preparation. Rubbing calluses with scratchy pads or sponges also helps.
A substance called a callus forms around broken bones when they begin to mend. This substance is different from a skin callus.
