Symptoms and Treatment of Foot Corn

Calluses are thick, hardened layers of skin that can form due to constant strain, pressure or friction. A corn is actually a type of callus, it typically forms on the soft, thin parts of the foot such as the skin at the top or on the toes. They can be incredibly painful and uncomfortable, if left untreated they may develop into a serious problem. There are three different types of foot corns-

Soft Corns: Usually forms on the soft skin between your toes or on the side of the toes. They are more whitish-grey in colour than yellow and have a soft rubbery texture.
Hard corns: Usually form at the top of your toes, on areas which bone pressure falls on. They are small and hard.
Seed corn: Usually forms on the sole of your foot, in clusters. Like soft corns and hard corns, they form due to pressure/friction, but they are tinier than other corns.

Signs to look out for:

Thick, roughened skin
A hard, slightly yellow bump
Dry, flaky or waxy skin
Tenderness or pain under pressure

The treatment of foot corns is an easy process. Usually, once the cause of the foot corns is removed, the corn will go away by itself, but if you wish to speed up the process you can follow these steps for foot corn removal-

Soak your foot in warm water for 10-15 minutes, until the skin softens. Make sure the corn is fully submerged.
Now that your skin is softened, use a nail file or washcloth to gently remove the upper layer of toughened skin. Do not use sharp objects to do this, take care not to remove excess skin.
Apply a moisturizing cream on and around the corn to keep your skin soft and smooth and eliminate dryness.

If you’re wary of this method of foot corn removal then you can apply a corn plaster instead to cushion your feet and keep the skin protected. Pick a plaster that has salicylic acid, a plant-based acid that helps shed dead skin and reduces swelling.

How to use a corn plaster:

Thoroughly clean and dry the area around the corn
Apply the plaster so that the center of the foam ring covers the corn
Remove and replace the plaster with a new one after 2 days
On the fourth day, remove the now softened corn in a warm bath
Repeat the cycle if necessary
Do not use if you are diabetic or have circulatory problems

Pressure Protection Rings are also available in pharmacies. They give immediate pain relief from corns and calluses by forming a cushion around them and in turn taking the pressure off them. They can also be used to protect sensitive spots. Apply on clean, dry skin and press on firmly for good adhesion.

How to prevent foot corns?

Foot corns are easily preventable by making a few simple changes in your everyday life.

Wear comfortable footwear that has enough wiggle room for your toes.
Don’t skip out on socks.
Keep your toenails trimmed, clip them straight and not round.
Use a plaster to cover sensitive areas while breaking in new shoes or heels.
Wash away dead skin regularly and keep your feet moisturized.
Use cushioned or padded insoles/inserts.
Use a foot powder daily if you suffer from sweaty feet.

If at-home treatments don’t work, it is advisable to see a doctor. Corns don’t go away overnight, but they should disappear within two weeks of treatment if the cause of irritation is removed.

Symptoms and Treatment for Foot Corn That You Need To Know