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Corns

Corns are formed over areas that are frequently exposed to pressure and friction. These are thickened layers of skin that the body has formed in attempt to protect the skin and its' inner layers from the outside pressures. Corns can be hard or soft with a translucent center. The hard corns are found mainly on the top, tip, or side of toes where constant pressure is applied. Soft corns are usually found between the toes. They can be become inflamed and quite painful with repetitive pressure to the same areas. This can be caused by two toes constantly rubbing against each other, or it can be caused by the footwear rubbing against the toes. Like calluses, corns are compacted dead skin cells that have formed a thickened and hard shell. Pressure to the central core may stimulate the nerve below and cause pain and discomfort.

What Causes Corns?

Corns are caused by friction and pressure from the skin rubbing against bony areas when wearing shoes. If the first signs of soreness are ignored, corns and calluses can arise as nature s way of protecting its sensitive areas. In the diabetic patient or those with a decrease in immune response, pressure areas may lead to ulcers instead of corns and calluses.

What is the treatment of corns?

Moleskin pads can be used to protect the area. Permanent correction is advisable if the condition is chronic and not kept comfortable through conservative methods. It is easier to have a healthy individual heal than to treat an ulcerated area that needs constant attention. Always be sure you properly choose comfortable shoes and that you examine the inside of the shoes with your hands before you put them on. Avoid using corn removing solvents and medicated pads. These can cause further irritation and pain. Diabetics and individuals with poor circulation should never use any chemical agents to remove corns. This may lead to more serious problems such as ulcers and infections.

How can I prevent corns from coming back?

Prevention of a foot corn (hyperkeratosis):
Corns are easy to prevent - just take away the cause and that cause is excessive pressure. No chemical applied to the corn will take away pressure. Correct fitting of footwear around the toes, the use of pads to relieve pressure, surgical management of bony prominence and/or regular podiatric care are the best options for prevention of corns.