Have you ever felt like you're constantly battling corns on your feet? Here's why...
Corns – those little, hardened patches of skin – can be a real pain (literally!). You treat them, they go away, and then, just like a cheesy pop song, they're back again. But why? Read on to discover what causes corns, treatment options, and, most importantly, how to keep them at bay for good.
What are corns?
Corns, known as Heloma durum, are thickened areas of dead skin that develop due to repeated friction or pressure on a specific spot on your foot. They typically appear on the tops or sides of toes, and on the soles of your feet, especially under weight-bearing areas like the balls of your feet.
Corns between your toes, known as Heloma molle, usually appear as softer more soggy patches as skin. This is because sweat between the toes does not easily evaporate and the skin does not get as hard or dry as it does elsewhere. They can still be very painful though!
Heloma Mille are smaller types of corns. They do not always appear on areas of pressure or friction, and are more likely to be due to dry skin conditions. They tend to be painless but occasionally can be bothersome.
It is important to note that corns are simply dense patches/plugs of hard skin, they do not have "roots" and are not caused by infections.
The Root of the Problem: Friction and Pressure
Corns are your skin's way of protecting itself from friction and pressure. When your skin rubs against something repeatedly, it thickens to create a barrier. This is why corns are most common on the tops and sides of toes, and on the balls of your feet - areas that experience a lot of pressure when you walk.
The problem is, if the source of that friction and pressure isn't addressed, the corn will just keep coming back.
So, why does my corn keep growing back?
Firstly, it might not be a corn! Corns (and verrucas) are frequently misdiagnosed. See your local HCPC registered podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis.
Once your podiatrist removes your corns they can return, and under the right (or really the wrong) circumstances they can grow again extremely quickly. That isn't because your podiatrist didn't remove them properly, but because the cause of the corn hasn't been addressed properly, i.e. the friction or pressure which caused the corn to grow in the first place is still there! Here are some common culprits:
Ill-fitting shoes: Shoes that are too tight, too loose, or lack proper support can cause friction and pressure on specific areas of the foot. Many foot problems can be resolved and prevented by wearing more appropriate footwear.
Certain activities: Runners and athletes who put a lot of stress on their feet are more prone to corns. People who have to stand or walk a lot for their job are more likely to get corns.
Foot deformities: Bunions, hammertoes, and other bony abnormalities can alter the way pressure is distributed on your feet, leading to corns.
Hyperkeratosis: People who get a lot of hard skin generally may suffer more frequently from corns due to the type of skin they have.
Breaking the Cycle
The good news is that there are ways to break the cycle of recurring corns. Here's what you can do:
Invest in good shoes: Get properly fitted shoes that provide good support and aren't too tight. Consider cushioning insoles if needed.
Choose the right socks: Opt for well-fitting, moisture-wicking socks made from soft materials such as bamboo. Preferably opt for seamless socks.
Pamper your feet: Apply a rich emollient (foot cream) daily. Ideally look for one that contains around 10% urea and moisturising factors such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides or NMFs (natural moisturising factors). Ask your podiatrist which ones they recommend
See a podiatrist: Podiatrists can swiftly remove your corns and give you advice on how to reduce the chances of them recurring. They can also advise about insoles and protective devices available - these are particularly useful for people with toe deformities or those who don't have much natural fatty padding on their feet.
Remember: If your corns are severe or painful don't be tempted to try home treatment, consult a podiatrist. They can help identify the underlying cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan. And please do not use corn plasters. Corn plasters contain salicylic acid which can burn the healthy skin surround the corn, and potentially lead to ulceration and infection. And after all that you can still be left with a corn!
So, ditch the corns and embrace pain-free feet! By understanding the reasons behind recurring corns and implementing preventive measures, you can keep those stubborn patches at bay and enjoy happy, healthy feet.
Hopefully this blog has answered some questions, but if you are still wondering "why does my corn keep growing back" then please do get in touch, we would love to help you.
If you need help with corns please call us on 0161 427 4937 or email info@mrpodiatrist.co.uk to book an appointment