Are you looking for some much-needed sole relief? Here’s how to treat a corn and put your best foot forward.
If not treated on time, foot corns can cause a lot of pain and discomfort and hamper your daily routine. Foot corns are thickened layers of skin that form as a result of your skin’s reaction to friction and pressure. They are typically round or cone-shaped, with a hard, waxy core that may cause pain when pressure is applied. Corns are caused primarily by repeated friction or pressure on the skin. Here are a few common causes:
- Tight shoes
Footwear that squeezes your toes or lacks adequate padding can create pressure points, resulting in corn growth.
- High heels
While a pair of high heels can add an instant touch of glamour to your look, if worn regularly, they can wreak havoc on your feet by causing corn to form on the tops of your toes.
- Abnormal foot anatomy
Conditions like bunions and hammertoes can cause your toes to brush against the inside of your shoes, resulting in corn formation.
- Activities
Certain activities, such as long-distance running or walking, might increase friction and lead to corn formation.
How to treat a corn on your foot?
Are you wondering how to treat a corn on your foot and restore your feet to their pain-free glory? Here are a few tips and tricks that can help:
Switch to comfortable footwear
The very first step in corn treatment is to identify and eliminate the cause of friction or pressure. Invest in comfortable shoes with plenty of room for your toes. Cushioned insoles might also assist in relieving pressure on the problem area.
Soak your feet in warm water
Soaking your feet for 10-15 minutes in warm, soapy water helps soften the corn, making it easier to remove. After soaking, use a pumice stone or a foot file to slowly reduce the size of the corn. But be careful not to take off too much skin as it can cause bleeding and infection.
Use padding
Corn pads or cushions sold over the counter can be put over the corn to minimise pressure and friction when wearing shoes.
Moisturise
If you want to treat a corn on your foot, moisturise the problem area daily with a nourishing moisturiser. It keeps the skin around the corn well-moisturised to prevent dryness and further friction.
Apply salicylic acid
If you are struggling with foot corns, an over-the-counter salicylic acid treatment can help. Salicylic acid can help break down the thickened skin of the corn and make your feet soft.
Visit a podiatrist
If home treatments are not yielding satisfactory results, it is advisable to consult a podiatrist. They can safely remove the corn and offer expert guidance on prevention.
Corns are unlikely to go away instantly, but with treatment, you can witness a reduction in their appearance in as little as two weeks. It might take a month or more for them to disappear completely. The key to keeping your feet happy and corn-free is to address the fundamental issues, wear comfortable shoes, and practise good foot care. If you want to learn more about how to treat a corn on your foot, schedule a consultation with me here.