Corns

Corns are one of the most frequent changes on the foot, causing sharp pain under pressure and touch. Corns are caused by the thickening of the skin (callus), formed on the foot's overburdened and excessively used parts. The skin is protecting itself against repeated rubbing and pressure by creating a thicker layer of skin, which does not only appear on the surface, but also under the skin, where it ends in a cone-shaped core. This deformation under the skin presses on the nerve ends, causing often severe pain.

There are two common types of corn:

• The hard corn, which usually develops on the sole of the foot, under the metatarsals and on incurved toes. They are caused by tight fitting footwear, high heeled footwear, tight fitting stockings and socks, deformed toes, or the foot sliding forward in a shoe that fits too loosely;
• The soft corn forms as a result of bony prominences located between the toe. They become soft due to perspiration in the forefoot area.

Complications that can arise from corns include bursitis and the development of ulcers.

Treatment: to prevent corns from forming, it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes with heels of the right height (no more that 5 cm) and enough room for the toes.

If a callus has already developed, it can be removed using a skin rasp or file, but in more serious cases it is best to see a specialist. By using Pedikom restorative orthotics even the most stubborn corns can be prevented from returning. Restoring the foot's balance, the orthotics relieve pressure on the most overburdened areas and thus eliminates the cause for the callus. Even corns with a thick core can be prevented from returning and an orthotic with a cushioned pad at the right place will relieve the associated pain. The corn should be removed by a specialist before wearing the orthotics, but then it should not return again.