A corn is a circular area of thickened skin developed because of continuous friction or pressure. They usually develop on the soles of feet, or on the top or sides of toes, and appear as yellowish dead tissue surrounding an area of tenderness. Pain and discomfort may be present with walking, which can get more painful without treatment.
Ill-fitting shoes are the main reason for corns. Tight shoes apply pressure on the foot, while loose shoes cause your feet to rub against it. High heeled or pointed toed shoes can squeeze and localize pressure on one part of the foot. Corns can develop over bone deformities such as hammer toe and claw toe, where the joints are abnormally bent.
Your doctor will help identify the cause of your corns and suggest an appropriate treatment. Eliminating the cause is necessary to prevent corns from recurring. Treatment for underlying bone deformities may be suggested. Certain soaks and pads may be suggested to soften corns and relieve pressure. Your doctor may trim the corn with a scalpel, removing thickened dead tissue. You will be advised on wearing appropriate footwear to reduce pressure on your feet.
