How to care for corns? Corns are small, painful areas of thickened skin that often appear on the toes or soles of the feet. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including tight or ill-fitting shoes, high heels, and deformities in the toes or foot structure.

Proper care during the healing process is essential to prevent infection and to ensure that the corn does not return. Corns don’t have to control your life any longer.

Our compassionate team at Bayshore Podiatry Center is here to help you find the best treatment options and get you back on the path to comfort. Schedule a consultation today

So, What Are Corns?

Corns are small, circular areas of thickened skin that typically appear on the toes or soles of the feet. They are often accompanied by pain or discomfort, which can make walking or wearing shoes difficult. Corns can vary in size, but they are generally smaller than calluses and are more painful.

What Causes Corns?

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of corns, including:

·       Tight or Ill-fitting Shoes

Shoes that are too tight or that put pressure on certain areas of the foot can cause corns to form.

·       High Heels

High heels can place undue pressure on the toes and the balls of the feet, leading to the development of corns.

·       Deformed Toes or Foot Structure

Certain foot deformities, such as hammertoes or bunions, can cause excess pressure on certain areas of the foot, leading to the development of corns.

·       Repetitive Friction or Pressure

One of the most common causes of corns is wearing shoes that are too tight or that put pressure on certain areas of the foot. High heels can also cause corns to develop by placing undue pressure on the toes and balls of the feet.

Certain foot deformities, such as hammertoes or bunions, can also contribute to the formation of corns. These deformities can cause excess pressure on certain areas of the foot, leading to the development of corns.

Managing Corns and Calluses

Corns and calluses are both thickened areas of skin that develop as a result of repeated friction or pressure, but there are some key differences between the two.

Corns are smaller and more pinpointed, typically forming on the tops and sides of toes, or on the bony areas of the foot. They typically have a central core and are often surrounded by inflamed skin. Corns can be painful and can make it difficult to wear shoes.

Calluses, on the other hand, are larger and more diffuse than corns. They typically form on the soles of the feet, but can also form on the palms of the hands. They are not usually painful, but can make the skin feel rough and thickened. Calluses are the body’s natural way to protect the skin from excessive pressure or friction.

They are most commonly found on the feet, but can also develop on the hands or other parts of the body.

Symptoms of corns and calluses include:

  • Hard, raised, and thickened areas of skin: The skin in the affected area will feel thick and bumpy to the touch. Corns are usually smaller and more concentrated in one spot, while calluses are more diffuse and cover a larger area.
  • Pain or discomfort when pressure is applied to the affected area: Corns and calluses can be quite painful and may cause discomfort when wearing shoes or walking.
  • A circular or oval shape: Corns are usually round or oval in shape.
  • A smooth, glossy surface: The affected area may appear shiny and smooth, due to the thickened skin.
  • Tenderness or redness in the surrounding skin: The skin around the corn or callus may be red or inflamed, and may be tender to the touch.
  • In some cases, a visible central core or “plug“: Some corns have a visible central core, which is a small, hard plug in the center of the corn.

It’s important to note that corns and calluses can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions, such as warts or tumors. If you have any concerns about the appearance or symptoms of a corn or callus, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

They may recommend self-care measures, such as using over-the-counter creams, pads, or other remedies to soften the skin, or may recommend other treatments such as paring, surgery, or orthotics to reduce pressure on the affected area.

If you are experiencing discomfort or pain due to corns, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the best course of treatment.

How To Care for Corns and calluses During the Healing Process

To care for corns and calluses during the healing process, the following steps can be taken:

  1. Soak the affected area in warm water for 10-15 minutes to soften the skin. This can be done in a basin or by using a foot soak.
  2. Gently file the corn or callus with a pumice stone or emery board. Be sure to file in one direction, rather than back and forth, to avoid further irritation.
  3. Apply a moisturizer to the affected area to keep the skin supple and hydrated.
  4. Avoid wearing tight-fitting shoes or socks that rub against the corn or callus. Instead, opt for shoes with a wide toe box and wear socks made from breathable materials.
  5. Use a cushioning pad or bandage to relieve pressure on the affected area.
  6. If the corn or callus is causing pain or discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen can help.

It’s worth noting that if the corn or callus is causing excessive pain or discomfort, or if it is located on a weight-bearing area of the foot, it is best to consult professionals at Bayshore Podiatry in Tampa, FL, and request an appointment.

Our experienced professionals can help you find the right treatment plan to address your specific needs.

As a preventative measure, it’s important to keep your feet dry and clean, and to wear well-fitting shoes. Also, avoid walking barefoot, especially on hard surfaces.

When to Seek Professional Treatment for Corns

Corns are a common foot ailment that can cause discomfort and pain. While they can often be treated at home with self-care measures, there are certain situations in which it is important to seek the advice of a healthcare professional for proper treatment.

·       Severe Pain or Discomfort

If the corn is accompanied by severe pain or discomfort that persists despite home treatment, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. Over-the-counter pain relievers and other self-care measures may not provide adequate relief in these cases.

Severe pain can disrupt daily activities and make it difficult to wear shoes comfortably, so seeking professional treatment is crucial.

·       Signs of Infection

Another reason to see a doctor is if there are signs of infection in the corn, such as redness, swelling, or pus. Infections can occur if the corn is left untreated or if it is not properly cared for during the healing process.

 If left unchecked, an infection can spread and cause more serious health issues. A healthcare professional will be able to determine the cause of the infection and prescribe the appropriate treatment to resolve it.

·       Persistent Corns

If the corn does not improve after several weeks of home treatment, it is a good idea to see a doctor. While most corns will resolve on their own with proper care, some may be more stubborn and require additional treatment.

 A healthcare professional will be able to determine the cause of the persistent corn and recommend the appropriate course of action to resolve it.

End Your Corn Pain for Good

Corns can be a painful and frustrating problem, but fortunately, there are effective treatment options available. However, it is important to consult with a professional when seeking treatment for corns.

Podiatrists have the knowledge and experience to properly diagnose the cause of your corns and determine the best course of treatment. In addition, they can provide guidance on how to prevent corns from reoccurring in the future.

Don’t suffer from corn pain any longer, let our team of experts help you find the right treatment. 

Book a consultation now and get on the road to relief.

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