4 Questions to Ask Podiatrists about Corn Removal

Corns are thickened areas of skin that develop when the skin is subjected to excessive pressure and friction, usually on the feet. They are characterized by a hard center and may be surrounded by inflamed skin, often forming on the tops and sides of toes or the balls of the feet. Corns can cause discomfort and pain, especially when pressure is applied to the area or when walking. They are commonly formed due to wearing shoes that do not fit properly, but they can also arise from an abnormal gait or the structure of the foot itself.

Corns on feet typically result from a combination of pressure and abrasion, leading to the buildup of tough skin as a protective response. They often occur when one’s footwear is too tight or loose, causing repeated rubbing against the foot’s surface. High heels or shoes with thin soles can also contribute by exerting excessive pressure on specific foot areas during movement. Additionally, foot abnormalities such as hammertoes or bunions change the way weight is distributed across the feet, prompting the skin to thicken in response to increased friction. Even activities that place added stress on the feet, such as sports or long periods of standing, can be contributing factors to the development of corn.

Corn on the foot typically appears as a small, circular area of thickened, hardened skin with a central core that can be either hard or soft. Hard corns often develop on the outer surfaces of the toes or soles of the feet and have a dense, tough core surrounded by yellowish dead skin. Soft corns, which are more common between toes, have a rubbery texture and may appear whitish and moist due to the sweat in these areas. These lesions can be distinguished from other skin build-ups like calluses by their size and shape — corns are more concentrated and have a well-defined center that can be particularly sensitive to touch and pressure.

If a foot corn is left untreated, it may lead to an increased level of discomfort and pain, potentially interfering with daily activities and mobility. Over time, the untreated corn can become more entrenched and may result in the development of deeper skin layers turning hard and thick. In severe cases, this can cause changes in gait or posture as individuals attempt to alleviate pressure and pain by walking differently. This, in turn, can trigger secondary issues such as joint pain or inflammation elsewhere in the body. Additionally, for people with diabetes or compromised circulation, neglecting corn can increase the risk of infection and ulcers, which require prompt medical attention to prevent more serious complications.
 
At Bay Area Foot and Ankle Associates, we understand the importance of healthy feet in your daily life. Our team is committed to providing our patients with the highest quality foot care, tailored to meet your specific needs. If you’re dealing with the discomfort of corn or any other foot-related issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

When conservative treatment is ineffective for thick or rigid corn, corn removal is a quick and easy technique to remove them. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations in Walnut Creek, CA, and Brentwood, CA. We serve patients from Walnut Creek CA, Brentwood CA, Concord CA, Pleasant Hill CA, Pittsburg CA, Antioch CA, Alamo CA, Danville CA, Oakley CA, and surrounding areas.