If you’ve ever noticed a small, hardened area on your foot that seems to be causing discomfort, you might be dealing with a corn. Corns are a common foot problem that many people experience, but they’re often misunderstood. Today, we’ll explore what corns are, their causes, the different types, and how they can affect your foot health.

What Are Corns?

Corns are small, thickened areas of skin that develop on your feet due to repeated pressure or friction. They typically form on the tops or sides of the toes and can be quite painful. Unlike calluses, which are larger and spread out, corns are usually smaller but more focused in their location. They can be a real nuisance and often impact your daily comfort and mobility.

Causes of Corns

So, what causes corns to form? Here are the main culprits:

• Pressure and Friction: The most common cause of corns is prolonged pressure or friction on a specific area of the foot. This can be due to wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even excessive rubbing from socks.

• Foot Deformities: Conditions like bunions or hammertoes can alter the way pressure is distributed across your foot, increasing the risk of corns forming. When the bones in your feet are not properly aligned, certain areas of skin may endure more pressure, leading to corn development.

• Improper Footwear: Shoes that don’t fit well—whether they’re too tight, too loose, or have an awkward shape—can cause corns. High heels and shoes with narrow toe boxes are particularly notorious for creating the right conditions for corns to form.

• Repetitive Activities: Activities that involve repeated pressure or friction on your feet, such as running or walking long distances, can contribute to the development of corns, especially if proper footwear is not worn.

Types of Corns

Corns come in a few different varieties, each with its own characteristics:

1. Hard Corns: These are the most common type and typically form on the tops of toes. Hard corns have a central core of thickened skin and can be quite painful when pressed.

2. Soft Corns: Soft corns usually develop between toes and are softer due to the moisture from sweat. They often appear white and may be more susceptible to infection if not treated properly.

3. Seed Corns: These are smaller, often appearing on the soles of the feet. They can be numerous and are generally less painful than hard or soft corns.

How Corns Affect Foot Health

Corns can have several impacts on your foot health:

• Pain and Discomfort: The primary concern with corns is the pain they cause. The thickened skin can press on underlying tissues, leading to discomfort and sometimes even difficulty walking.

• Infection Risk: Corns, especially soft corns between the toes, can become infected if not kept clean and dry. This can lead to more serious issues if not addressed promptly.

• Altered Walking Patterns: To avoid pain, you might unconsciously change the way you walk, which can lead to further foot and leg issues.

Conclusion

Understanding corns, their causes, types, and how they affect your foot health is essential for managing and preventing this common condition. If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort from corns, don’t hesitate to seek help from the experts at Peak Podiatry Clinic. Our team is here to provide personalised care and effective treatments to get you back on your feet comfortably.

Remember, taking care of your feet is crucial for your overall well-being. We’re here to help you every step of the way!