A corn is a thickened area of the skin, usually on the foot, that is the result of friction from the inside of a shoe. It can have a soft or hard inner core. Hard corns generally form on top of a toe, while soft corns develop between the toes. Corns on the feet are formed from repeated pressure, which causes the skin to die and harden. A hard corn is tough and thick, often with a hard center that can cause pain if pressure, or friction, is prolonged. Moisture between the toes allows corns to soften. A soft corn looks more like an open sore, as the compressed toes rub against each other within the shoe. Changing footwear to give the toes and feet more room is the first way to avoid getting a corn. Several protective pads are available in retail stores. However, if a corn is causing extreme pain, it is a good idea to visit a podiatrist to have it examined and safely removed.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Stephen Petrofsky of Florida. 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 Port Charlotte, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.