CORN
Corns are small, thickened areas of skin that form on the feet, usually in response to pressure or friction. They commonly develop on the tops and sides of toes or on the soles of the feet.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Friction and Pressure
- Foot Deformities
- Activities - running or standing for long periods.
- Footwear Choices: Wearing tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes.
Signs and Symptoms
- Hard lump.
- Found on the tops and sides of toes.
- Pain
Treatment
- Footwear Changes: Wearing properly fitting shoes with wide toe boxes and adequate cushioning.
- Padding and Cushioning: Using corn pads or cushioning to reduce pressure and friction.
- Moisturizing: Regularly applying moisturizers to keep the skin soft and reduce the risk of hard corns.
- Callus Removal: Carefully trimming the thickened skin with a pumice stone or a foot file after soaking the feet.
- Medical Treatments
Prevention
- Proper Footwear: Wearing comfortable, well-fitting shoes with appropriate support and avoiding high heels or tight shoes.
- Foot Care: Keeping feet clean, dry, and moisturized. Using padding in areas prone to friction.
- Regular Foot Checks: Especially important for individuals with diabetes or other conditions that affect foot health.
Prognosis
- Corns can often be managed effectively with self-care and preventive measures.
- Persistent or painful corns may require medical treatment to prevent complications and improve comfort.