Corns on the feet can be painful and unsightly. Rarely do corn sufferers need to see a doctor, except in cases which are very painful, or if the afflicted is a diabetic. Diabetic patients are more at a higher risk of infection from corns or other foot injuries.
What Causes Corns?
Corns on the feet and toes are caused by an excessive amount of pressure or friction. This can come from poorly fitting shoes, not wearing socks, or ill-fitting socks that slip down into the shoe.
What is a Corn?
Corns are thickened layers of skin that may develop on the feet and toes. The skin may be touch and thick, or rough and flaky. The skin thickens as a protective mechanism.
Treatment
Eliminating the cause of the corn is the best way to treat a corn. This will slowly eliminate the corn, usually in a matter of 3 to 4 weeks. You may also use corn cushions to protect the corn from friction, or use a pumice to gently slough away the thick skin.
Possible Complications
Corns rarely cause any complications. Patients who are diabetic or who have poor circulation are at risk of infection from corns and must examine feet regularly.
Warning
Diabetic patients may develop foot ulcers from corns, calluses, or the use of tools or chemicals to treat foot problems. See your physician if you have a foot injury and do not use tools or chemicals to remedy corns unless instructed so by your physician.
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