Coping with corns
Corns - usually caused by pressure or friction from shoes that are too tight or too loose - can be painful and unsightly. Medically, corns are known as hyperkeratoses of the skin - thickening and hardening of the surface layer with a deep-seated core or nucleation. They can make walking or standing miserably uncomfortable.
The first step is to find and wear shoes that fit properly and comfortably. Making sure they are appropriate for your daily activities, and that they do not slip or bind when you walk, will help to prevent corns from forming. If you already have corns, consider the following suggestions:
- Use a pumice stone to reduce the thickness of a corn. Soak your feet first so the corn is soft when you rub it.
- Use moleskin or other non-medicated pads to reduce the pressure and pain.
- Avoid socks or stockings that bind your feet too tightly.
- Limit you use of high-heeled shoes - they increase pressure on the forefoot where corns develop.
- Consider an over-the-counter corn removal solution - they do contain acid so be careful, and never use them if you’re diabetic or have any problem with diminished circulation in the feet.
- See a podiatrist or other health care professional who treats foot problems if the remedies suggested above don’t help. Medical treatment usually involves paring or shaving the corn and its core. This will relieve the pain, but the corn will come back if you continue wearing the wrong shoes.
