WHAT IS A CORN?
Understand the different types of corns and how they can be a warning sign from your feet.
A corn is a small, thickened area of skin that develops due to repeated pressure or friction, typically on the feet or toes. It forms as a protective response to prevent skin damage but can become painful over time.
Types of Corn:
Hard Corns (Heloma Durum)
These are the most common type of corn and often appear as small, dense, circular patches of thickened skin. Hard corns usually develop on bony areas of the foot, such as the tops of the toes or the outer edge of the little toe.
Soft Corns (Heloma Molle)
Soft Corns have a whitish, rubbery texture and tend to be softer due to moisture. They usually form between the toes, where sweat and moisture keep the skin from hardening completely. Soft corns tend to be particularly painful due to friction between the toes.
Seed Corns
Seed Corns are tiny hard corns that often appear on the bottom of the foot, especially in weight-bearing areas like the ball of the foot or heel. They also may be linked to dry skin and sometimes appear in clusters.
WHAT IS A CALLUS?
Understand how a Callus is created and who may be more prone to this condition.
A callus is a thickened, hardened area of skin that forms in response to repeated friction, pressure, or irritation. It is the body’s natural defence mechanism to protect the skin from damage. Unlike corns, which are smaller and more concentrated, calluses are usually larger, have a diffuse border, and are not as painful. Calluses commonly develop on the soles of the feet, particularly on weight-bearing areas like the heels, balls of the feet, and sides of the toes. While they are generally harmless, they can cause discomfort or pain if they become too thick or are left untreated.
causes of a corn
Corns develop as a result of repeated friction or pressure on specific areas of the foot. The body responds by thickening the skin to protect itself, but this build up can become painful over time. One of the leading causes of corns is improper footwear, which increases pressure and friction on certain areas of the foot. People who stand or walk for long periods or partake in repetitive high impact sports such as running can be at a greater risk of developing corns.
It has also been found that if a person walks unevenly or has an abnormal gait, certain parts of the foot experience excessive pressure, leading to corns in those areas. Flat feet or high arches can also contribute to uneven weight distribution, causing corns to form where the foot takes the most impact.
Causes of a Callus
A Callus is normally developed as a protective mechanism when the skin experiences excessive pressure or friction. One of the many causes can be down to something as simple as improper footwear. This can be from shoes that are too tight, too loose or excessive use of high heeled shoes. Athletes are especially prone to developing calluses as well as avid walkers and running enthusiasts. This is due to the repeated friction and movement from these activates which can eventually go on to hinder your performance. Another cause can be flat feet or high arches which affect weight distribution, increasing pressure on certain areas. It is also important to take extra care if you have been diagnosed with Diabetes, as it has been found that poor circulation can make calluses more prone to infection.
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Podiatry Services
A Podiatrist can treat anything from an ingrowing toe nail requiring surgery under local anaesthetic to designing a custom made foot orthotic to assist with tendon or joint dysfunction or pain. We are also highly specialised to manage the Diabetic or High-Risk foot and the subsequent wounds that can arise.