When your feet are subject to abrasive irritation for extended periods, you might develop what’s known as a corn. Corns are hardened areas of skin—usually near the toes—that occur as a result of excessive friction between bone and the outer areas of the foot. Both cosmetically-challenging and uncomfortable, these rough patches of skin can make walking and running an unpleasant experience. Fortunately, by reviewing the following guide, you can take steps to prevent and treat this common foot problem.

What Every Person Should Know About Corns

What are the risks?

Apart from redness, swelling, and occasional discomfort, corns usually present no serious risks to foot health. However, individuals who have circulatory problems—such as those with diabetes—should be particularly cautious of the foot problem. In some cases, poor circulation can cause corns to develop into infected, open wounds.

How can you prevent corns?

The best way to prevent corns is to invest in footwear that fits properly. Specifically, it’s important to have shoes that minimize friction, especially in the toe area. If you wear shoes that are too tight—such as high heels—the added pressure will increase your risk of developing a corn.

Wearing socks is also an important part of corn prevention, as the additional layer of fabric helps minimize friction between the foot and the shoe. You might also find that wearing prevention pads, toe separators, or bandages can keep your feet intact.

If you develop corns as a result of a foot deformity—such as bunions or hammertoes—talk to a podiatrist. In many cases, corrective foot surgery will allow shoes to fit more comfortably and without friction.

How do you treat them?  

Usually, you can treat the issue through a series of home care steps. First, soak the foot in a warm solution to soften the skin. Using a pumice stone, gently file the affected area to remove a conservative amount of dead skin. Once the raised skin is smoother, apply moisturizing lotion to prevent further dryness. Until the area is completely healed, wear protective padding and avoid tight-fitting shoes.

If a corn is causing severe pain or infection, see a podiatrist in lieu of at-home treatment. Using special tools and medications, these foot doctors can help remove damaged skin and prevent wound formation.

When corns or calluses are causing serious foot problems, turn to Cincinnati’s Choice Podiatry Associates for relief. Equipped with state-of-the-art resources, these experienced podiatrists will gently restore skin health and provide solutions to prevent corns from returning—such as custom orthotics. If you suffer from chronic irritation due to deformities, these specialists also offer foot surgery services to restore the shape of your feet. For more details, visit this foot care clinic online. To schedule an appointment, call (513) 574-2424 to reach the Montfort Heights South location, (513) 984-1911 for the Kenwood office, or (513) 563-2225 to speak with the Wyoming team.