Corns are thickened patches of skin that typically develop on the feet in response to repeated pressure or friction. Commonly found on the tops or sides of the toes, corns can lead to discomfort and pain, especially when wearing certain types of footwear. Understanding what causes corns, how to identify their symptoms, and the available treatment options is important for effective management. This blog will dive into the factors contributing to corns and provide guidance on alleviating foot pain and preventing their recurrence.

What Are Corns

Corns are raised bumps composed of rough, thickened areas of skin that typically form in response to friction or pressure. They are usually surrounded by inflamed skin, which can cause foot pain. While often confused with calluses, corns are generally smaller and can be more painful due to their pointed shape, which digs into the underlying tissues.

Corns develop as a protective response, serving to shield the skin from ongoing irritation. They can occur in anyone but are most commonly associated with wearing tight-fitting shoes that do not provide adequate support or space for the toes. This friction often leads to irritation in areas such as the tops of the toes or the sides of the feet, making activities like walking or standing uncomfortable. In some cases, corns can become sensitive to touch, further impacting daily life and mobility. Understanding the causes and characteristics of corns is crucial for effective management and relief from discomfort.

 How to Prevent Corns

Here are some practical tips to protect your feet from corns:

1. Wear Properly Fitting Shoes

   Shoes that are too tight or too loose can rub against your skin, causing friction that leads to corns. Choose shoes with plenty of space for your toes, a cushioned insole, and a good fit overall. 

2. Use Protective Padding

   To prevent friction, consider using cushioned insoles or corn pads, which protect vulnerable areas of the foot. These reduce the amount of rubbing, which in turn reduces the chance of corns forming. Orthotic inserts, which are fitted by our trained podiatrists, can also help treat corns by fixing the way you walk, reducing pressure and friction that cause corns to form.

3. Moisturize Your Feet

   Dry, rough skin is more prone to developing corns. Keeping your feet moisturized will help prevent thickened skin from forming. Regularly apply foot cream or lotion to keep your skin soft and healthy.

4. Avoid High Heels and Tight Shoes

   High heels and narrow shoes concentrate pressure on certain areas of your feet, which makes corns more likely. Whenever possible, opt for comfortable, supportive footwear that distributes pressure evenly across the foot.

How to Treat Corns

If you already have a corn, there are several treatment options to ease discomfort and help the corn heal.

1. Soften the Corn
   Soaking your feet in warm water for 10–15 minutes can soften the corn, making it easier to reduce its size. After soaking, gently use an exfoliant to smooth the thickened skin. Make sure to be gentle, to not over aggravate the corn. 
2. Moisturize and Protect
   Once the corn is softened, keep the skin hydrated by applying a moisturizing lotion. Also, use protective corn pads to prevent friction, which will help the corn heal faster.
3. Over-the-Counter Products
   Certain over-the-counter topical products may also help treat corns by softening the skin and helping to ease discomfort. However, it’s important to consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment for your situation, before buying medication.
4. Professional Corn Removal
   If the corn becomes too painful or doesn’t respond to home treatment, it’s time to consult a podiatrist and consider getting it removed. We can safely remove the corn and prescribe orthotic inserts to adjust the way your feet fit inside your shoes. 
5. Surgery (Rarely Required)
   In some cases, corn surgery may be necessary. Surgery addresses the underlying issue that caused the corn, such as a bone deformity or structural imbalance. This is a rare type of treatment for a corn, and will only be suggested in rare cases. 

Next Steps

The key to preventing corns is to reduce friction. Always wear shoes that fit well or wear cushioned insoles, keeping your feet healthy and pain-free. If you or someone you know has a corn, we can help. At Physicians Footcare, our podiatrists and pedorthists can provide custom orthotics and treatment plans to get you back to comfortable feet in no time. Don't let foot pain slow you down, schedule an appointment today!

Physicians Footcare is committed to helping you maintain healthy, comfortable feet. Whether you're dealing with corns, calluses, or other foot issues, our team is here to provide personalized care and treatment. Contact us to learn more!