Corns are a common foot ailment that can cause significant discomfort if not properly addressed. At Bucks Foot Clinic in Amersham, UK, we specialise in diagnosing and treating various foot conditions, including corns. In this blog, we’ll delve into the details of corns, explain the differences between corns and verrucas, and provide insights into effective treatments for corns. If you’ve been wondering “what’s corn” and how to deal with it, read on to learn more.
What’s a Corn?
A corn is a small, thickened area of skin that typically forms on the feet due to repeated pressure or friction. Corns usually develop on the tops and sides of toes or on the soles of the feet. They are composed of dead skin cells and can be quite painful, especially when pressure is applied.
Types of Corns
There are three main types of corns:
- Hard Corns: These are the most common type and appear as small, dense, and hard patches of skin. They usually develop on the tops of toes or on the outer edges of the little toe.
- Soft Corns: Unlike hard corns, soft corns are whitish, softer, and moist. They often form between the toes where the skin is more prone to moisture and friction.
- Seed Corns: These are small, discrete calluses that often form on the bottom of the feet. They can be quite painful due to their location and the pressure applied when walking.
What’s the Difference Between a Verruca and a Corn?
Corns and verrucas are often confused due to their similar appearance, but they are different conditions that require distinct treatments.
Corns
- Cause: Corns develop due to repeated pressure or friction, typically from ill-fitting shoes or abnormal gait.
- Appearance: Corns are hard, thickened areas of skin, often with a central core. They are usually painful when pressed.
- Location: Corns commonly occur on the tops and sides of toes or on the soles of the feet.
- Treatment: Corn treatment focuses on reducing pressure and removing the thickened skin.
Verrucas (Plantar Warts)
- Cause: Verrucas are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and are highly contagious.
- Appearance: Verrucas are often flat with a rough surface and may have small black dots (clotted blood vessels). They can be painful when pressure is applied.
- Location: Verrucas typically form on the soles of the feet.
- Treatment: Verruca treatment involves antiviral or immune-stimulating therapies to eliminate the virus.
Understanding the differences between corns and verrucas is crucial for seeking appropriate treatment. At Bucks Foot Clinic, our expert podiatrists can accurately diagnose and treat both conditions.
How to Treat a Corn
Treating corns effectively involves addressing the underlying cause, removing the thickened skin, and preventing recurrence. Here are some common methods for treating corns:
1. Reducing Pressure and Friction
The first step in treating a corn is to reduce the pressure and friction that caused it. This can be achieved by:
- Wearing Proper Footwear: Choose shoes that fit well and provide ample space for your toes. Avoid high heels and narrow shoes that compress your feet.
- Using Protective Pads: Soft pads or cushions can be placed over the corn to reduce pressure and protect the skin.
- Orthotic Devices: Custom orthotic insoles can help redistribute pressure and improve foot alignment, reducing the risk of corns.
2. Softening and Removing the Corn
Once the pressure is reduced, the next step is to soften and remove the thickened skin. This can be done through:
- Soaking the Feet: Soak your feet in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes to soften the corn.
- Exfoliating: Use a pumice stone or foot file to gently exfoliate the thickened skin. Be careful not to remove too much skin, as this can cause irritation or infection.
- Applying Moisturizer: Regularly moisturizing your feet can help keep the skin soft and prevent the formation of new corns.
3. Professional Treatment
For persistent or painful corns, professional treatment may be necessary. At Bucks Foot Clinic, we offer several advanced treatments for corns, including:
- Debridement: Our podiatrists can safely and effectively remove the thickened skin using sterile instruments.
- Medicated Pads and Ointments: We provide medical-grade pads and ointments that contain salicylic acid to help dissolve the corn.
- Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the corn with liquid nitrogen to remove the thickened skin.
4. Preventing Recurrence
Preventing the recurrence of corns involves maintaining good foot hygiene, wearing appropriate footwear, and using orthotic devices if necessary. Regular check-ups with our podiatrists at Bucks Foot Clinic can help monitor your foot health and prevent future issues.
Why Choose Bucks Foot Clinic for Corn Treatment?
Expertise and Experience
Our team of skilled podiatrists has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating corns. We stay updated with the latest advancements in podiatry to provide you with the most effective treatments.
Comprehensive Care
We offer a wide range of treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Whether you have a single corn or multiple corns, we have the right solution for you.
State-of-the-Art Facility
Bucks Foot Clinic is equipped with modern technology and tools to perform precise and efficient treatments. Our clinic provides a comfortable and welcoming environment for all our patients.
Patient-Centred Approach
We prioritise your comfort and satisfaction. Our team takes the time to listen to your concerns, conduct thorough examinations, and explain all available treatment options to help you make informed decisions about your care.
Conclusion
Corns on the feet might seem like a minor issue, but they can significantly impact your daily life. If you’re dealing with corn, seeking help from a podiatrist is a wise choice. Schedule your appointment today and step confidently into a life free from foot pain.
At Bucks Foot Clinic, we have the expertise to diagnose, treat, and provide you with the guidance you need to prevent corns from coming back. Don’t let foot pain hold you back – take the first step toward healthier, pain-free feet by reaching out to us today.
FAQ
What is a corn on the foot?
A corn is a small, thickened area of skin that forms on the feet due to repeated pressure or friction. They commonly develop on the tops and sides of toes or on the soles of the feet and can cause significant discomfort.
How do corns differ from calluses?
While both corns and calluses are thickened areas of skin, corns are typically smaller, have a hard centre, and are often painful when pressed. Calluses are larger, less defined, and generally painless, forming on the soles of the feet or the palms of the hands.
What causes corns to develop on the feet?
Corns develop due to repeated pressure and friction. This can result from wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, having an abnormal gait, or engaging in activities that put excessive pressure on specific areas of the feet.
How can I prevent corns from forming?
To prevent corns, wear properly fitting shoes that provide ample space for your toes, use protective pads or insoles to reduce pressure, maintain good foot hygiene, and regularly moisturise your feet to keep the skin soft.
What are the common symptoms of a corn?
Common symptoms of corns include a small, hard, and raised bump on the skin, pain or tenderness when pressure is applied, and thickened or rough skin around the affected area.
How are corns treated at Bucks Foot Clinic?
At Bucks Foot Clinic, we offer various treatments for corns, including professional debridement (removal of thickened skin), medicated pads and ointments, cryotherapy (freezing the corn), and custom orthotics to reduce pressure and prevent recurrence.
When should I see a podiatrist for a corn?
You should see a podiatrist if the corn is causing significant pain, if it becomes inflamed or infected, if you have diabetes or other conditions that affect foot health, or if home treatments are not effective. Professional care ensures proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications.