What Are Corns?

Coastal Foot & Ankle Associates, with Dr. Mark Moss, can help Texas residents manage a variety of problematic health concerns to ensure that they stay healthy and happy. For example, our team can help manage corns in Houston, and Pearland, TX to ensure that you’re healthy. Here’s what you need to know about this common health issue.

What Is a Corn?

A corn is a thick layer of hardened skin that develops due to heavy pressure on the skin. While they can form anywhere on the body, they’re most commonly found on the feet, toes, hands, or fingers. Most develop on the side of the foot because this is where you put most of your weight throughout the day. As they develop, they can become painful or uncomfortable. 

What Causes Them?

As mentioned above, a corn is caused by persistent pressure and friction on the skin. Typically, they develop due to mistakes like wearing ill-fitting shoes and socks, which rub against your feet and toes. However, people who play musical instruments (specifically drums) or use tools may also develop a corn. Anyone regularly on their feet for their job is also at a high risk for a corn. 

How Do They Differ From Calluses?

A corn and a callus are similar but different: both cause rough skin with a hardened, raised bump, tenderness and pain, flaky skin, and dry skin. However, corns are smaller and deeper than calluses and have a harder center. As a result, the skin often swells around them and can be hard and soft. By contrast, calluses are rarely painful and form mostly on pressure spots. 

Are They Dangerous?

A corn is typically not a dangerous problem, and most people live with them without issue. Addressing the underlying cause (such as poorly fitting shoes) can usually eliminate a corn quickly. That said, people with diabetes or other diseases that cause poor blood flow may develop complications, including deeper foot cuts and infections. 

Can I Prevent Them?

If you develop these skin issues regularly, visit a shoe store and get fit with a size that fits your feet more effectively. You may also want to buy corn pads and bandages where they develop most frequently and wear padded socks to minimize their development. If they continue to worsen, it might be time to see a professional for help. 

Can You Help Me?

At Coastal Foot & Ankle Associates, Dr. Moss can help with corns in Houston, and Pearland, TX. Call our Pearland office at (281) 485-2988 or our Memorial Hermann Southeast office in Houston at (281) 484-2400 to schedule an appointment today.