Corns on the feet develop when the skin thickens to protect itself from repeated pressure or friction. They most often appear on the top and sides of the toes or on weight-bearing areas of the feet. Unlike calluses, corns are usually smaller and have a hard center that can press into deeper tissue, making them painful when standing or walking. Tight-fitting shoes, toe deformities, and changes in the way you walk can all increase the risk of developing corns. Symptoms include tenderness, discomfort, or a small area of thickened skin that becomes painful with pressure. Although corns may seem minor at first, ongoing irritation can make daily activities more difficult if they are left untreated.
A podiatrist can determine whether a corn is causing your symptoms or if another foot condition is responsible. During an evaluation, the podiatrist examines the affected area, checks your foot structure, and looks for causes of repeated pressure. Treatment may include carefully removing thickened skin and reducing pressure on the affected area. A podiatrist may recommend medical devices or footwear modifications when appropriate. Professional care is especially important for people with diabetes, poor circulation, or reduced feeling in their feet because foot problems may become more serious without proper treatment. Early care can also help improve comfort and prevent recurring irritation.
Ignoring painful corns may lead to continued discomfort and increased stress on other parts of the foot. Receiving prompt corn treatment, foot pain treatment, and podiatry care can improve comfort and support healthy movement. Early treatment also helps address the underlying cause of repeated pressure to reduce the risk of recurring corns. A podiatrist develops a treatment plan based on your individual needs to help protect your long-term foot health. If you have painful corns or ongoing foot discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.
Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Katie Besselman, DPM of Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:
- Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
- Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
- Wearing only shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Peters, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
