Corn, which is a type of callus, usually shows up on the smooth, thin surfaces of the foot’s skin, such as the top of the foot and toes. It can cause discomfort and look unpleasant on your feet. But no need to worry because there are ways to remove it and prevent it from appearing again.
What Causes Corns
Corns may differ in their texture. The soft corns commonly form between the middle toes, whereas the hard corns form on the top portion of the toes. There are also what you call seed corns, which usually appear on the sole of the feet.
The usual causes of corns include abnormal walking tendencies. Sometimes, the condition is due to the foot structure itself, which causes constant rubbing of toes against the interior of the shoe that eventually leads to repeated pressure on the skin. Other reasons could include skipping socks and wearing shoes that do not have the exact fit.
Some foot corns gradually subside and disappear when friction or rubbing ceases. But in general, if left untreated, corns may cause an enormous amount of foot pain and discomfort.
If you experience symptoms, such as dense patches on the skin, burning sensation around elevated surfaces of the skin, or tenderness upon touch and pressure, you must seek an assessment from a medical specialist or podiatrist. Corn removal or other recommendations by a podiatrist in Singapore or area near you may be necessary.
Care and Treatment Options for Corns on Feet
Trimming involves the use of a scalpel to pare down the thickened skin. The moment the corn has been pared down, the pressure and pain on the infected skin are relieved. Have regular sessions if necessary.
Doctors recommend you use proper footwear once the corn has been treated as it helps prevent the condition from recurring. In case the skin seems to be thickening up once more, an emery paper or pumice stone can be used to rub-down the thickened area once a week. You can do this at home. Before using the emery paper or pumice board, make sure to soak the infected foot in warm water for 20 minutes to soften the thick portion. Also, apply a moisturiser or lotion cream to the thickened skin so that it is easier to rub down.
The medical products used in paring down the dead and thickened skin on corns generally contain salicylic acid. This type of acid is keratolytic, meaning it dissolves the keratin or protein that comprises the thick layer of the dead skin.
Medical experts typically recommend doing this treatment, which comes in drops, pads and plasters, because of the positive results seen in most patients. This treatment will take effect when the top of the skin turns white, thereby making dead skin to peel off easily. However, these products are not suitable for patients who have diabetes since there might be risks leading to possible skin complications.
Shoes and Footwear
Wearing shoes that fit well might only be, if not, the best solution to prevent having foot corns and calluses. You must always wear shoes that lessen pressure and rubbing on the forefeet. There must be a conscious effort in buying shoes that are not only in style or look flattering but offer plenty of room for the toes and upper and low heels to breathe. As mentioned earlier, proper footwear will avoid the recurrence of foot corns. Podiatrists advise some people with abnormal foot structures to use special footwear to prevent pressure and rubbing.
Footpads and Toe Protection
A podiatrist can prescribe the need for any appropriate cushioning pads, shoe insoles or toe splints, depending on the site of corn.
If you experience recurring problems despite having done the mentioned treatments, surgery is the final course of action.
Corns are normal, but you can prevent these from occurring if you take care of your feet. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes. If you have shoes that are too snug on your feet, do not wear them for an extended period. Remember that comfort must always come first.