FAQs about Corns
At Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle we know all our patients have heard about corns, but how much do you actually know about them? Below are some frequently asked questions to help you understand this common foot condition and what to do about them.
Q: What are corns?
A: Corns are a type of callus that form as a result of repeated friction, rubbing or pressure on one area. These thickened patches of skin develop to protect a part of your foot.
Q: Where do corns form on the feet?
A: Corns most often develop on the top of your foot such as where a joint or a deformity like a bunion is rubbing against your shoes. Another common spot is the tips or tops of toes, especially in cases where there is a hammertoe or other abnormally positioned toe that results in friction or pressure from footwear.
Q: What’s the root cause of corns?
A: In addition to the toe deformities mentioned above, there are several other potential causes of corns. These include:
Age—corns are more common as you get older due to age-related biomechanical changes in the feet.
Improper footwear—socks and shoes that don’t fit properly—both too big and too small—can lead to friction and corns.
Diabetes—loss of sensation in your feet due to diabetic neuropathy may mean that pressure or pain on the foot goes undetected for a long time and so corns are your body’s protective response.
Obesity—excess weight means excess pressure on all parts of your feet which can lead to corns.
Q: When should you see a podiatrist about a corn?
A: If you believe you have a corn and it’s causing pain or discomfort, you should contact our Hudson office by calling 727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799 for an appointment so that our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales can examine your feet. It’s particularly important to not put off getting a corn evaluated if you notice blood or discharge from the corn or if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
Q: What can the podiatrist do to treat a corn?
A: There are a range of options available for treating corns. The foot doctor may shave down the built-up layers of skin that form the corn. Dealing with the root cause of the corn is a key component of treatment. This may involve shoe modifications and corn reduction consisting of repositioning bones, cutting tendons, ligaments, or excess bone.
Don’t let a corn reduce your ability to do all the activities you love. Contact us today to get it taken care of.