Corn, a painful condition that even becomes the subject of movies, is often seen on the soles of the feet. However, in recent years, the prevalence of sports shoes has led to a noticeable decrease in cases. Sometimes, what we think is a corn may actually be a foot wart. (1)
If you have a hard surface on your foot that causes pain when you step on it, whether it’s a corn or a wart, it definitely needs to be treated.
You can get rid of corns and warts in minutes with non-surgical corn treatment using radiofrequency or electrocautery, eliminating the need for surgery.
If you are considering corn treatment in Izmir, we recommend Op. Dr. Haluk Çekmeceli. Along with the opportunity for a free examination, a 50% discount is offered on treatment fees for patients with SGK insurance.
What is a Corn?
A corn is a skin condition that occurs due to the skin thickening and hardening as a result of continuous friction or pressure. This thickening develops as a protective mechanism against friction and pressure. Corns are most commonly seen on the hands, feet, and fingers, especially under the toes and heels. (2)
- Thickened Skin: The outer layer of the skin (epidermis) thickens in areas of continuous pressure or friction.
- Hard and Rough Texture: Corns typically have a hard and rough texture.
- Irregular Shape: Corns can grow in irregular shapes.
- Pain or Discomfort: They can be painful or uncomfortable under pressure.
Causes of Corns:
- Inappropriate Footwear: Wearing tight, constricting, or uncomfortable shoes can cause constant friction or pressure on certain areas of the feet. High heels or shoes that do not fit the foot structure can also trigger corn formation.
- Continuous Friction or Pressure: Repeated movements on the hands and feet (e.g., playing a musical instrument or doing a specific sport) can lead to constant friction and pressure on the same area of the skin.
- Improper Walking Style: Abnormal walking patterns or improper foot placement can cause excessive pressure on certain parts of the feet.
- Thickened Skin: Some people naturally have thicker skin, making them more prone to corn formation.
- Constant Use of Hands and Feet: Professional groups that constantly use their hands and feet (e.g., construction workers, gardeners, athletes) are at higher risk.
- Anatomical Factors: Certain features of foot structure (e.g., high arches or protruding bones) can increase the risk.
How to Treat Corns?
- Moisturizing Creams and Lotions: Creams containing urea, salicylic acid, or lactic acid can be used to soften corns. These products moisturize the skin and help peel off the hardened skin.
- Warm Water Soak: Soaking the corn-affected area in warm water for 10-15 minutes can help soften the skin. Then, a pumice stone or foot file can be used gently to smooth the skin.
- Pumice Stone or Foot File: A pumice stone or foot file can be used to gently rub the softened top layer of the corn. This process helps smooth the skin surface and reduce the size of the corn.
- Protective Pads and Cushions: Corn pads or cushions can be used to reduce pressure and protect the uncomfortable areas. These products help distribute pressure and prevent further hardening.
- Wearing Suitable Shoes: Wearing comfortable, well-fitting, and correctly sized shoes can help prevent corn formation and prevent the existing problem from worsening.
- Using Moisturizer: Regularly moisturizing the feet can prevent skin dryness and reduce the risk of corn formation.
- Reducing Pressure: If the issue is due to a specific pressure point, adjustments inside the shoe or special insoles can be used to reduce the pressure.
What is the Purpose of a Corn Bandage?
Corn bandages can be an effective solution for mild to moderate corns. However, severe or inflamed corns may require medical treatment.
- Active Ingredients: Corn bandages typically contain salicylic acid. Salicylic acid softens the top layer of the skin, facilitating the peeling of the thickened skin layer.
- Pressure Relief: They can help relieve pressure, contributing to faster healing.
- Application Process: It is important to clean and dry the area. The bandage should be applied directly to the corn and left in place according to the instructions for a specific period.
- Regular Change: During treatment, bandages may need to be changed regularly. Depending on the condition of the corn, the treatment can last several days or weeks.
- Side Effects: Salicylic acid can cause skin irritation in some people. If you experience redness, pain, or irritation, stop using it and consult a healthcare professional.
REFERENCE
- Grouios, G. (2004). Corns and calluses in athletes’ feet: a cause for concern. The Foot, 14(4), 175-184.
- Singh, D., Bentley, G., & Trevino, S. G. (1996). Fortnightly review: callosities, corns, and calluses. Bmj, 312(7043), 1403-1406.