Corns are a common foot ailment that many people experience, particularly those who spend long hours on their feet or wear poorly fitting shoes. These thickened, hardened areas of skin usually develop on the toes or the soles of the feet as a result of friction and pressure. While corns may seem like a minor issue at first, they can cause significant discomfort and, in some cases, lead to serious health complications if not treated properly. One of the most common myths surrounding corns is that they can be safely shaved off at home using simple tools. However, this myth can be dangerous, leading to infections, injury, and worsening of the condition. In this article, we will explore why shaving corns at home is not advisable and what steps you should take to effectively manage this foot condition.

Understanding Corns and Their Causes

Before diving into why shaving corns at home is problematic, it’s important to understand what corns are and how they form. Corns are areas of thickened skin that develop in response to repeated friction or pressure. They often form on the tops or sides of the toes, or on the soles of the feet, and are usually circular in shape with a hard center surrounded by inflamed skin.

The primary cause of corns is excessive pressure or rubbing on a specific area of the foot. This can occur from wearing shoes that do not fit properly, such as tight shoes, high heels, or shoes with narrow toe boxes that squeeze the toes together. Additionally, foot abnormalities like hammertoes, bunions, or high arches can cause uneven pressure on the feet, leading to the formation of corns. Even activities that cause repetitive friction, like running or walking long distances, can contribute to the development of corns.

While corns are generally harmless, they can cause pain and discomfort, especially when the hardened skin presses against nerves in the foot. If not addressed, corns can become increasingly painful and lead to complications, particularly for individuals with certain health conditions such as diabetes or poor circulation.

Why Shaving Corns at Home is Risky

Many people, in an attempt to alleviate the discomfort caused by corns, turn to over-the-counter corn removal pads or tools. Some even resort to shaving the corns off at home using razors or pumice stones. While this may seem like a quick fix, shaving corns at home comes with several risks that can worsen the situation.

1. Increased Risk of Infection

One of the most significant risks of shaving corns at home is the potential for infection. Shaving a corn with a sharp object, such as a razor blade or a specialized corn remover, can break the skin, creating an open wound. This exposes the underlying tissue to bacteria, which can lead to an infection. This is especially dangerous for individuals with diabetes or poor circulation, as they may have a reduced ability to heal wounds. Infected corns can cause swelling, redness, and pus, which may require antibiotics or more invasive treatment to resolve.

2. Worsening the Condition

Shaving corns does not address the root cause of the problem—friction and pressure. While shaving may temporarily remove the hardened skin, it is unlikely to prevent the corn from returning. If the underlying cause, such as ill-fitting shoes or a foot deformity, is not addressed, the corn will often reform, sometimes even in a more painful manner. Instead of resolving the issue, shaving corns at home can lead to a cycle of repeated treatments without long-term relief.

3. Potential for Injury and Pain

Shaving corns without proper training can lead to injury. When using a sharp object to remove a corn, there is always the risk of cutting the surrounding healthy skin. A cut in this area can be painful and can exacerbate the problem. Additionally, if you are not careful, you could accidentally cut too deeply into the corn, causing damage to the underlying tissues or nerves. This could result in additional pain and a prolonged recovery period.

4. Inability to Address Underlying Foot Conditions

Corns are often a symptom of a larger foot problem, such as bunions, hammertoes, or abnormal gait. Shaving the corn does not address these underlying conditions, meaning the pressure and friction that caused the corn in the first place will likely continue. For long-term relief, it is essential to address the root cause of the corn, which may involve changing footwear, wearing custom orthotics, or seeking medical treatment for foot deformities.

Proper Treatment for Corns

Instead of attempting to shave corns at home, it is always best to seek the advice of a professional. A podiatrist, or foot specialist, is trained to diagnose and treat foot conditions like corns. They will assess the cause of the corn and recommend the most appropriate course of treatment.

1. Foot Examination

During a consultation, a podiatrist will examine your feet and evaluate any underlying conditions that may be contributing to the formation of corns. They will check for any foot deformities, such as bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet, which may require special treatment.

2. Professional Corn Removal

A podiatrist can safely and effectively remove corns using medical-grade tools, ensuring that the procedure is done without causing damage to surrounding tissues. Depending on the severity of the corn, they may use a scalpel or other instruments to remove the thickened skin. Unlike at-home treatments, professional corn removal is performed under sterile conditions, reducing the risk of infection and ensuring proper healing.

3. Addressing the Underlying Causes

A podiatrist will not only treat the corn but will also work with you to address the underlying causes. This may involve recommending better-fitting shoes, custom orthotics to redistribute pressure on the feet, or exercises to correct abnormal gait. By addressing the root cause, you can prevent future corns from forming and ensure your feet remain healthy.

When Should You Seek Professional Help?

If you have corns that are causing significant pain or discomfort, or if you notice signs of infection, it is essential to seek professional care. Other indicators that you should consult a podiatrist include:

• Difficulty walking or wearing shoes comfortably
• Increased redness, swelling, or drainage from the corn
• Presence of corns on both feet or other abnormal growths
• Diabetes or poor circulation, as these conditions can complicate corn treatment

Shaving corns at home is not only ineffective but also dangerous. It can lead to infection, injury, and worsened foot problems. Instead, visit a podiatrist to ensure your corns are treated properly and to address any underlying foot conditions.

At DeNiel Foot and Ankle Center, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of foot conditions, including corns. Our Houston Podiatrist can provide safe, effective treatments and help you find long-term relief from corns and other foot ailments. We offer a comprehensive approach, addressing not just the symptoms but the root causes of your foot problems.

If you’re struggling with corns or any other foot issues, don’t wait. Book an appointment today at DeNiel Foot and Ankle Center, and let us help you put your best foot forward.

Book An Appointment 832-415-1790

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Foot calluses are a common condition that many people experience, often leading to discomfort or even pain. While calluses are typically harmless, they can sometimes cause problems, especially when they appear on the sole of the foot, develop holes, or are confused with other conditions like warts.

If you’ve been wondering what foot calluses look like, whether they’re bad for your feet, or how to address painful calluses, this guide will provide the answers. We’ll also explain when it’s time to see a podiatrist for professional treatment.

What Does a Foot Callus Look Like?

A foot callus is a thickened area of skin that forms in response to repeated friction or pressure. Here are some key characteristics:

• Texture and Color: Calluses are typically rough, dry, and thickened. They often appear yellowish or grayish compared to the surrounding skin.
• Location: They commonly develop on areas of the foot that bear weight or experience friction, such as the soles, heels, or under the toes.
• Size and Shape: Calluses are usually larger and more spread out than corns, with no defined edges.

While calluses are usually painless, they can become uncomfortable or hurt, especially if they grow deep or develop complications.

Why Do Calluses Form?

Calluses are your body’s way of protecting your skin from friction and pressure. Common causes include:

1. Ill-Fitting Shoes
   Shoes that are too tight or loose can rub against your skin, causing calluses to form over time.
2. High-Impact Activities
   Running, walking, or standing for long periods can increase pressure on your feet, leading to callus development.
3. Foot Abnormalities
   Conditions like flat feet, bunions, or hammertoes can create uneven pressure on certain areas of the foot, leading to calluses.
4. Barefoot Walking
   Frequent walking barefoot on rough surfaces can cause the skin to thicken as a protective response.

Callus That Hurts on the Bottom of the Foot

While calluses are typically painless, they can become problematic under certain conditions:

• Excessive Thickness: Thick calluses can press into the sensitive underlying tissue, causing discomfort or pain, especially on the sole of the foot.
• Callus with a Hole: Sometimes, a callus may appear to have a small hole in the center. This could be a sign of a plantar wart (caused by the human papillomavirus) rather than a callus. Warts often cause pain when walking or applying pressure.
• Infection: If a callus cracks or opens, bacteria can enter, leading to pain, redness, and swelling.

Are Foot Calluses Bad?

In most cases, foot calluses are not harmful. They are

your body’s natural response to protect your skin from repeated pressure or friction. However, they can become problematic if:

• They cause pain or discomfort while walking.
• They crack, exposing the underlying tissue to infection.
• They are mistaken for other conditions like plantar warts or corns.

If a callus becomes painful or affects your ability to walk comfortably, it’s essential to seek treatment from a foot doctor.

Can Calluses Cause Foot Pain?

Yes, calluses can cause foot pain, especially when they:

1. Press on Sensitive Areas
   Thickened calluses can press into nerves or underlying tissues, causing discomfort.
2. Develop in High-Pressure Zones
   Calluses on the ball of the foot or heel may cause sharp pain when standing or walking for extended periods.
3. Complicate Existing Conditions
   For individuals with diabetes or poor circulation, calluses can increase the risk of ulcers or infections.

If your callus is painful or persistent, consulting a podiatrist is essential to prevent further complications.

Wart or Callus? How to Tell the Difference

Sometimes, it can be difficult to distinguish between a plantar wart and a callus. Here are the key differences:

If you’re unsure whether you’re dealing with a wart or a callus, it’s best to consult a foot and ankle specialist.

How to Treat Painful Calluses on the Sole of the Foot

Treating a painful callus requires reducing the pressure on the area and softening the hardened skin. Here’s what you can do:

• Soften the Callus

• • Soak your feet in warm, soapy water for 10–15 minutes to soften the skin.
  • Use a pumice stone to gently file away some of the thickened skin.

• Protect the Area

• • Use cushioned pads or inserts to reduce pressure on the callus.
  • Wear properly fitted shoes with ample room for your toes to move.

• Keep Skin Moisturized

• • Apply a thick moisturizer or a cream containing urea or salicylic acid to soften the callus over time.

• Seek Professional Treatment

If your callus remains painful or keeps returning, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. They can safely remove the callus, address underlying causes, and provide custom orthotics if necessary.

When to See a Podiatrist for Callus Feet Pain

It’s time to consult a podiatrist if:

• Your callus is causing significant pain or affecting your ability to walk.
• There’s a hole in the callus, as this could indicate a plantar wart.
• The callus is red, swollen, or shows signs of infection.

Dr. Ejodamen Shobowale of DeNiel Foot and Ankle Center specializes in treating foot conditions, including painful calluses. With her expertise, you can receive a personalized treatment plan to address the pain and prevent recurrence.

Contact Information

• Phone: 832-415-1790
• Address: 15003 FM 529 Road, Houston, TX 77095

Preventing Painful Foot Calluses

The best way to deal with calluses is to prevent them from forming in the first place. Follow these tips:

• Wear Proper Shoes: Choose footwear that fits well and provides adequate support.
• Use Cushioned Insoles: These can help distribute pressure evenly across your feet.
• Trim Your Nails: Long toenails can push against shoes, increasing pressure and friction.
• Keep Your Feet Moisturized: Dry skin is more prone to hardening and forming calluses.

Final Thoughts on Callus Feet Pain

Calluses are a common foot issue, but they don’t have to interfere with your daily life. By addressing the underlying cause and following proper care techniques, you can reduce discomfort and prevent complications.

If you’re struggling with painful calluses, unsure if it’s a callus or wart, or dealing with recurring foot pain, don’t hesitate to visit a foot and ankle specialist for expert care.

Contact DeNiel Foot and Ankle Center in Houston today for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

Phone: 832-415-1790
Address: 15003 FM 529 Road, Houston, TX 77095

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Callus nucleation, often referred to as intractable plantar keratosis, is a condition where a callus develops a deep-seated core, causing significant pain and discomfort. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for callus nucleation. The three key points we will focus on are Mechanical Stress, Symptoms and Diagnosis, and Treatment and Prevention.

1. Mechanical Stress

Mechanical stress is a primary factor in the development of callus nucleation. This stress results from repetitive pressure and friction on specific areas of the foot, leading to the thickening of the skin as a protective response.

Causes and Risk Factors:

• Poorly fitting footwear: Shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause excessive friction and pressure on the feet.
• Abnormal foot mechanics: Conditions such as flat feet, high arches, or deformities like hammertoes can lead to uneven distribution of weight and increased pressure on certain areas.
• High levels of activity: Athletes and individuals who spend long hours on their feet are more prone to developing calluses due to constant pressure and friction.

Impact of Mechanical Stress:

The skin responds to chronic pressure by increasing keratin production, leading to the formation of a callus) Over time, the callus can develop a central core or nucleation, which penetrates deeper into the skin layers, causing pain and discomfort.

2. Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms and diagnosis of callus nucleation are crucial for effective treatment. Recognizing the signs early can help prevent the condition from worsening.

Common Symptoms:

• Pain and tenderness: The most noticeable symptom is pain, especially when pressure is applied to the affected area.
• Thickened skin: A visible thickening of the skin, often with a hard, central core.
• Discomfort while walking: The pain can make walking or standing for long periods difficult.

Diagnosis:

• Physical examination: A podiatrist will examine the foot, looking for signs of thickened skin and the presence of a central core.
• Medical history: Understanding the patient’s activity levels, footwear choices, and any underlying foot conditions helps in diagnosing callus nucleation.
• Imaging tests: In some cases, X-rays may be used to rule out other conditions and assess the extent of the callus.

3. Treatment and Prevention

Treatment and prevention strategies are essential for managing callus nucleation and preventing recurrence. A combination of medical treatments and lifestyle changes can provide relief and improve foot health.

Treatment Options:

• 

  Debridement: A podiatrist can remove the thickened skin and the central core using a scalpel. This procedure provides immediate relief from pain.

• Padding and orthotics: Using pads or custom orthotic devices can help redistribute pressure away from the affected area, reducing friction and preventing further callus formation.
• Medications: Topical treatments, such as salicylic acid, can help soften the callus and make it easier to remove. However, these should be used under medical supervision to avoid damaging surrounding healthy skin.

Prevention Strategies:

• Proper footwear: Wearing well-fitting shoes with adequate support and cushioning can significantly reduce the risk of developing calluses.
• Regular foot care: Keeping the feet clean and moisturized, and using a pumice stone to gently remove dead skin, can help prevent callus formation.
• Addressing foot mechanics: Consulting with a podiatrist to correct any underlying foot mechanics issues, such as using orthotics for flat feet, can prevent excessive pressure on certain areas (Tanglewood Foot Specialists, n.d.).

Callus nucleation is a painful condition that can significantly impact daily activities. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and implementing effective treatment and prevention strategies are key to managing this condition. By addressing mechanical stress, seeking timely medical intervention, and adopting preventive measures, individuals can maintain healthy feet and avoid the discomfort associated with callus nucleation.

For those experiencing persistent foot pain or callus nucleation, seeking professional help is crucial. At DeNiel Foot and Ankle Center, Dr. Shobowale, your Houston Foot Doctor, and her team specialize in diagnosing and treating various foot conditions, including callus nucleation. With personalized care and advanced treatment options, they are dedicated to helping you achieve optimal foot health. Schedule an appointment today to take the first step towards pain-free feet.

Book An Appointment 832-415-1790

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Seed corn on foot

Shoe Corn Formation:

The majority of seed corn formations are due to friction injuries from shoes such as high heels. Corns develop as a response to constant rubbing. Loose shoes cause excessive rubbing in some areas of the foot, prompting the skin to grow thick. Proper fitting shoes will keep these problems away.

Socks Seed Corn Formation:

Socks are the best in the prevention of seed corn formation by avoiding excess friction from the shoes. If the socks are too tight or loose, they can contribute to the formation of seed corns.

Overuse and Repetitive stress:

Repetitive stress or friction to the skin can cause foot corn. It also includes repeated running or walking up and down hills or doing it for long distances. Surprisingly, even working for long on hard surfaces, including standing, can lead to corns. In cases of uneven gait, the feet bear weight differently with the potential of causing seed corns. Overuse and repetition are not the limited ways for corn formations because there are different weight-bearing and standing activities that can cause them.

Acquired and Congenital Deformities:

Any foot condition that alters the shape of the foot, poses the risk of corn formation to the foot. A bone spur is a condition that forms at the end of the bone and can cause excessive rubbing that can lead to corns. Bunions also hasten corn formation. Forms of fixed, unnatural joints contracture and hammertoes often can cause the formation of seed corns.

Corn on foot treatment

Home care treatment can cause the seed corns to disappear but then the amount of time varies between individuals. If the seed corns are persistent after treating at home consult a doctor to avoid infections and complications.

1. Soak your feet.

Soaking the feet in warm soapy water softens the seed corns. Soaking for 5 to 10 minutes will cause easy reduction of the corns.

2. Reduce the thickened skin.

Take time to thin the skin thickened by seed corns using one of these methods:

• Filing – Use an emery board or a pumice stone to file away layers of thick skin. Be gentle while filing also avoid filing away too much skin. If you have underlying conditions that affect the feet, have a professional do this for you.
• Over-the-counter medications – The medications contain salicylic acid and are available as pads or liquids. However, if you have other underlying conditions that affect blood flow or diabetes, avoid using this method.

3. Moisturize

Use a moisturizer on the soles of the feet to hydrate and soften your skin.

4. Footwear

While treating seed corns, wear fitting and comfortable footwear including shoes and socks.

Make an appointment with a foot doctor if the seed corns are very painful, appear infected, inflamed, or significantly interfere with daily activities. Please feel free to contact our Houston, TX office if you have any questions about foot corns. For all of your foot and ankle needs, we use the most up-to-date diagnostic and treatment technologies. Our foot specialist doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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Corns occur at pressure points causing corn on bottom of foot or corn on top of foot or at the side of toes, the balls of the feet, and between toes. Corns on feet can be painful, but they are a response by the body to protect sensitive skin.

Types of Foot Corn

Hard corn – This is a patch of thickened dead skin with a central core that presses on the nerve endings, and it occurs on the tips, tops, and side of toes.

Soft corn – This usually appears between the 4^th and 5^th toes, it has a thinner surface, rubbery in texture, and appear to be gray or whitish.

Seed corn – It occurs at the bottom of the foot; it is tiny and very tender due to its location. It can be caused by plugged sweat ducts.

Causes of the corns

Corns develop due to improper walking motion and ill-fitting shoes. High-heeled shoes increase the risk of developing corns in women because they put additional pressure on the feet. Other risk factors include wearing sandals without socks due to friction on the feet and some foot deformities.

Pressure or rubbing causes soft corns or calluses. If a child develops foot corn with no source of pressure, consult a foot doctor for proper diagnosis; it could be a foreign body or a wart.

Due to the wearing of shoes, the feet are in a moist environment ideal of bacteria breeding. If the bacteria enter through the skin of the corn causing pus and fluid, this leads to staph infections.

Foot Corn Removal

There are over the counter corn remover options, but it is a good idea to soak and scrape for the medications to work faster. When pressure and friction causing corns are relieved corns go away.

1. Soak the corn for five to 10 minutes in warm water to soften the skin.
2. Dip the pumice in warm water then use it to gently file the corn in sideways or circular motion to remove dead skin. Please be careful to not take too much skin to avoid infections and bleeding.
3. Use donut-shaped adhesive pads to protect corns from further irritation during activity and to prevent any direct contact with the shoes.
4. Wear properly fitting shoes because the wrong size and shape of your feet could lead to the development of corns. To get the right fitting shoe shop for the shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen.
5. Keep your toenails trimmed because long toenails can push the toes and against the shoe causing a corn to form over time.

If you have poor circulation or fragile skin, or you have underlying conditions such as diabetes or peripheral arterial disease visit a podiatrist for foot corn treatment.  If you notice signs of infections such as pus, very painful, redness, or swelling visit a podiatrist. The foot doctor can cut away the thickened skin with a scalpel to relieve pressure on the tissue beneath it. If you have questions about foot corn(s) on your feet, you should reach out to a foot and ankle specialist. Feel free to contact our office to make an appointment with our podiatrist. Our Houston foot specialist, Dr. Ejodamen Shobowale can provide you with the care you need to keep you pain-free on your feet.

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Some causes of corns and calluses may be wearing ill-fitting shoes and not wearing socks. If you wear tight shoes, your feet will constantly be forced to rub against the shoes, causing friction. If you fail to wear socks, you are also causing your feet to endure excess friction.

There are some signs that may help you determine whether you have one of these two conditions. The first symptom is a thick, rough area of skin. Another common symptom is a hardened, raised bump on the foot. You may also experience tenderness or pain under the skin in addition to flaky, dry, or waxy skin.

There are also risk factors that may make someone more prone to developing corns and calluses. If you are already dealing with bunions or hammertoe, you may be more vulnerable to having corns and calluses as well. Other risk factors are foot deformities such as bone spurs, which can cause constant rubbing inside the shoe.

Corns tend to be smaller than calluses and they usually have a hard center surrounded by inflamed skin. They also tend to develop on the parts of the body that don’t bear as much weight such as the tops and sides of toes. Corns may also be painful for those who have them. On the other hand, calluses are rarely painful. These tend to develop on the bottom of the feet and may vary in size and shape.

Fortunately, most people only need treatment for corns and calluses if they are experiencing discomfort. At home treatments for corns and calluses should be avoided, because they will likely lead to infection. If you have either of these ailments it is advised that you consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for you.

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Research has indicated that the majority of corns that develop on the feet occur as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. They are defined as small areas of hardened skin that form on top of or between the toes, and develop from excess friction. Mild relief may be obtained when the feet are soaked in warm water, which can be helpful in softening the corn. Some patients find it helpful to use a corn pad, and this may be beneficial in reducing any pain and discomfort that the corn produces. Corns can be managed and possibly prevented when shoes that fit properly are worn, and have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. If you are afflicted with a corn, it is advised to consult with a podiatrist who can offer you the best treatment techniques.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr.Eji Shobowale of DeNiel Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Cypress, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Understanding Corns and Calluses

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Corns will typically develop on the pinky toe or between the toes as a result of pressure and friction. A common cause of the development of this condition, is from shoes that do not fit correctly, which causes the toes to have inadequate room to move about. This painful ailment may cause pain to exist inside the toe, and this may be a result of the pressure that is exerted on sensitive nerves. Corns are divided into two categories, and are referred to as hard or soft corns. The latter will exist in between the toes and will thrive in moist environments. Hard corns typically form on the tops of the toes where that portion of the toe meets the shoe. Corns can be prevented by choosing to wear shoes that fit properly. If you are experiencing hard or soft corns, it’s advised to consult with a podiatrist who can suggest proper treatment options that are correct for you.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr.Eji Shobowale of DeNiel Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Cypress, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Corns: What Are They, and How Do You Get Rid of Them

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Corns are often confused with a callus, but there is a difference between them. Corns can be raised bumps that are painful to the touch. They consist of a rough, thick area of skin that may be dry or waxy. Corns tend to be surrounded by skin that is inflamed, and are usually much smaller than calluses.

Removing the dead skin that has built up is the key in treating corns. Salicylic acid medication is most common in accomplishing this. The acid works by dissolving keratin, which is the protein that makes up the majority of corns. You can purchase salicylic acid over-the-counter in products such as wart removers. It comes in a variety of forms such as medicated pads, drops, or creams. However, people who are diabetic should not use salicylic acid, but should instead consult their doctor immediately.

According to the product directions, applying the medication directly onto the corn will treat it. The top layer of the corn will begin to turn white after use. When that occurs, the layers of skin can then be peeled away, making the corn smaller. Shaving off corns with razors or other pedicure equipment is never a good idea. This can lead to infection. If your corn gets infected, and is not treated immediately, a visit to the doctor will be necessary.

Another way to treat corns and help prevent their return is by using orthotic inserts, fitted by a podiatrist. Inserts fit right into your shoes and adjusts the way your foot fits into your shoes. This fixes the way you walk. This will lower your chances of getting corns, and eliminate current corns by reducing rubbing from friction.

Surgery is rarely used to treat corns, but does occur on occasion. Surgery actually deals with the underlying issue that causes corns. During surgery, the bone is shaved and any abnormalities are corrected, thus reducing the amount of friction that occurs during walking.

To prevent corns, the first step is reducing friction. Always wear shoes that fit well and don’t rub your feet. Pads can be purchased if you notice rubbing developing. These pads can be purchased over-the-counter, and can be simply placed on the irritated area. Wearing cushioned insoles in your shoes can always reduce the friction, and making sure to wear well-fitting shoes. This will ensure that your foot is not being squeezed awkwardly, and prevent corns from forming in the first place.

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