Foot corn is a very common skin condition seen in both men and women. It is characterised by a rough, yellowish patch that is sensitive to touch. Although not a serious condition, foot corn may cause chronic discomfort. Furthermore, foot corn may indicate an underlying health condition, and timely treatment is key to preventing complications.       

If you are a medical student or a healthcare provider, knowing about foot corn, its types, causes, symptoms, and treatment is crucial. Keep reading for detailed insight! 

What is a Corn on Feet?

Corn on feet are small, hard bumps of thickened skin that form on the top or side of a toe. They are a common and usually harmless skin condition caused by persistent friction and pressure in a particular area. 

Foot corn can be classified into the following types:

1. Hard Corns: These are tiny, hard, dense patches of skin that often exist inside a broader region of thicker skin. Hard corns typically occur on the tops of your toes, where bone pressure pushes against your skin.
2. Soft Corns: They are foot corns with a white or grey colour and a softer, rubbery feel. Soft corns usually form between your toes.
3. Seed Corns: Such corns are little and generally appear on the bottoms of your feet.

What are the Causes and Risk Factors of Corn on Feet? 

Several factors can contribute to the development of foot corn, including:

• Underlying medical conditions that affect the natural alignment of foot bones, such as arthritis, hammertoes, bunions, or bone spurs.
• Walking without socks, which increases friction and pressure on the skin.
• Wearing tight or narrow shoes that do not provide enough space for your feet.
• Loss of natural cushioning or atrophy of the foot’s padding, which reduces shock absorption and increases pressure points.

Therefore, proper footwear and foot care can help prevent foot corns and reduce discomfort.

What are the Symptoms of Foot Corn? 

Some common symptoms of foot corns include:

• A thick, rough patch of skin
• A hardened or raised bump
• Tenderness or pain beneath the skin
• Flaky, dry, or waxy skin

How is the Diagnosis for Foot Corn Conducted? 

When it comes to foot corn diagnosis, here are some points to consider:

• If a corn becomes painful or inflamed, consult a healthcare provider. 
• Individuals with diabetes or poor blood circulation should seek medical attention before attempting self-treatment, as even minor foot injuries can lead to serious complications, such as infected ulcers.

What are the Treatment Options For Corn on Feet?

The treatment methods for foot corn depend on the symptoms and the condition of the corn. However, in the case of normal corn on feet, eliminating the deposit of skin is a successful and reliable method. 

Consider the following steps:

Step 1: Soak Your Feet: Soak the affected foot in warm, soapy water to soften the corn. This may make it simpler to remove the thicker skin.

Step 2: Thin the Thickened Skin: After softening the damaged skin, use a pumice stone, nail file, or washcloth to remove the corn. This helps to eliminate a layer of hardened skin. 

Note – Do not use a sharp item to remove the skin. 

Step 3: Use Corn Pads: Apply petroleum jelly (Vaseline) to the region surrounding the corn before using a medicated corn pad. Then use a foam pad to shield the area where the corn occurred.

Step 4: Moisturise Your Skin: Use moisturising cream or lotion on the corn area and the dead skin around it.

Step 5: Wear Shoes and Socks: Wear comfortable shoes and socks until your corn heals properly.

What Prevention Tips to Follow For Corn On Feet?

Follow the tips mentioned below to prevent foot corn:

• Wear Shoes that are Comfortable and Fit Well: Shoes should have shock-absorbing soles, provide enough cushioning, and support your feet. The toe space of your shoes should be sufficiently long and wide to prevent your toes from rubbing against the shoe or other toes. Wear socks in addition to your shoes. Make sure your socks are tight enough to prevent them from bunching up beneath your feet.
• Use Cushioned or Padded Insoles: If you have experienced corns in the past, talk to your doctor about personalised insoles. These can balance weight-bearing stresses on the bottom of your foot and prevent corns from developing.
• Check Your Feet Daily and Keep Them Clean: Wash your feet in warm, soapy water. Dry them and apply a moisturising foot cream. This will help keep your skin soft and hygienic.

FAQs About Corn on Feet 

1. What causes corn on feet?

Corns are caused by excessive pressure or friction from ill-fitting shoes, high heels, walking barefoot, or abnormal foot structure.

2. How are foot corns diagnosed?

A doctor can detect foot corn by performing a physical examination and evaluating foot anatomy and gait.

3. What are the treatment options for foot corn?

Treatment options include wearing comfortable shoes, using protective pads, applying moisturisers, soaking feet, and, in severe cases, professional removal by a doctor.

4. Are foot corns the same as calluses?

No, foot corns are usually smaller, more painful, and have a hard centre. Meanwhile, calluses are larger, less painful, and spread over a wider area.

5. Can foot corn come back after treatment?

Yes, if the underlying cause (such as improper footwear or foot abnormalities) is not treated, foot corn may return.

Conclusion

Foot corns are a common but manageable condition caused by continuous friction or pressure on the skin. While untreated corns are mostly harmless, they can create discomfort and difficulty, particularly in individuals with underlying health issues such as diabetes or poor blood circulation. Preventive measures, such as using correct footwear, cushioned insoles, and foot moisturisers, are crucial in reducing the frequency of foot corn development. 

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