Corns are thick, hardened layers of skin that accumulate when the skin encounters undue friction or pressure. Corns can occur on various areas of the body, but corns on the feet are the most common. They are not only unsightly, they can also be painful, making it difficult to wear certain shoes. In general, corns will begin to dissipate once the source of the friction is lessened or eliminated. However there is treatment available to relieve discomfort and prevent long-term damage to the skin.
Self Care
Wearing ill-fitting shoes or shoes with straps between the toes can often cause corns between the toes. It is important to refrain from wearing these types of shoes. Soaking feet in warm water can help to soften the skin, making it easier to remove with a washcloth or pumice stone. Diabetes patients should refrain from using a pumice stone to reduce the risk of a possible infection. Using a thick or cream moisturizer can also help to soften skin. Do not attempt to remove corns at home or without the care of a physician.
Salicylic Acid
Some mild cases of corns may require treatment with salicylic acid. A physician can apply a patch composed of approximately 40 percent salicylic acid to a corn. The salicylic acid works to break down the thickened skin, making it easier for the patient to file away dead skin, thereby removing the corn. The patch may need to be replaced and the procedure repeated depending on the severity of the corn. Salicylic patches for corns are available over-the-counter but may be slightly less concentrated than formally prescribed versions.
Trimming
In some cases, a corn is large enough to prevent shoes from fitting properly or affect the patient's ability to walk. In this case, self care measures alone may not be effective and medical treatment is needed. Some patients require "trimming." Trimming is a procedure performed by a physician where the thickened skin is pared down with a scalpel. Trimming is considered a minor procedure and can be performed during a standard office visit with minimal recovery time.
Surgery
Surgery is usually only required in severe cases where the corn must be removed to provide relief or a bone in the foot is improperly aligned and causing the development of corns. Many surgical procedures for corns or underlying bone spurs can be performed on an outpatient basis.
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