Why do corns form on the feet?

Written by He Da Wei
Dermatology
Updated on October 24, 2024
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Corns on the feet are caused by long-term compression or friction, leading to excessive proliferation of the stratum corneum and thickening of the stratum corneum. Corns commonly occur in adults, particularly in women, and are frequently found on pressure-bearing areas such as the feet, soles, the inner edges of the big toe, the outer sides of the little toes, as well as the heels and tips of the toes which are areas of friction and pressure. The skin lesions are clearly defined, either light yellow or deep yellow in color, shaped like a cone with a smooth and slightly raised surface. Because they compress the peripheral nerves in the dermis, walking or when pressure is applied, the pain is quite noticeable.

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How can corns be treated to be eradicated completely?

Corns are growths formed by the entry of foreign bodies into the skin, which become exacerbated by repeated friction and compression. There are many treatments for corns, and the most conventional one involves the application of corn plasters, which can completely cure the condition. Corn plasters are a type of corrosive medication. After local application, they completely erode the corn. However, in some patients where the corn is particularly deep or large, corn plasters may not be able to cure it completely. In such cases, it is advisable to visit a dermatologist at a reputable hospital and opt for liquid nitrogen freezing treatment. Following liquid nitrogen treatment, blisters form locally, and as these blisters peel off and necrotize, the corn also falls off and dies. If these treatments are not effective, one can consult a surgical department for a surgical procedure to completely excise the corn.

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Can I apply corn plaster if the corn has burst?

If a corn has broken open, you should not continue to apply corn plaster to it, as the plaster is somewhat corrosive. Since the skin of the corn has already been damaged, you should not use this medicated plaster until the skin has healed. Corns typically develop on the skin due to prolonged friction and pressure on the foot skin. Wearing ill-fitting shoes for a long period, or having deformed feet or toes, can also lead to the development of corns. If you have a corn, you can apply corn plaster locally, or visit a formal hospital to receive treatments such as cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen or using a carbon dioxide laser. If the corn has broken open, pay attention to the cleanliness and hygiene of the foot to prevent further infection. You can apply iodine locally for disinfection.

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There are many small flesh spikes in the corn.

Corns often contain many small flesh spikes, and this condition might be due to plantar warts, caused by factors such as local compression and friction. This disease is actually a type of common wart, usually resulting from abnormal local skin proliferation, leading to keratinization. Physical therapy or surgical methods are generally used to improve this condition. Physical therapy mainly involves excision and separation, and it is essential to use some softening solutions to prevent extensive bleeding. Surgical options mainly include laser and cryotherapy, which can effectively treat and improve the condition, and further analysis and determination can be done based on the specific situation.

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What should I do if corns keep recurring?

Corns are hyperplastic lesions formed after foreign objects enter the skin and are subject to prolonged friction and pressure. They mostly appear on the soles of the feet. In such cases, commonly used corn ointments can completely cure them. For some patients who suffer from recurring episodes, corn ointments are generally effective. However, if the condition frequently recurs and appears in abundance, it may need to be considered as common warts, which are caused by a viral infection. Therefore, in such situations, it is advisable to visit the dermatology department of a regular hospital for a further diagnosis by a doctor. If the condition is diagnosed as common warts, cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen may be required for treatment. If it remains a corn, it is advisable to adjust one's lifestyle habits, such as wearing looser shoes more often and avoiding walking barefoot on dirty surfaces as much as possible.

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Why do corns keep increasing in number as they grow?

Corns growing in number and size is usually linked to wearing tight shoes and compression. They are also related to localized friction and irritation. Another possibility to consider when corns multiply is an infection caused by human papillomavirus resulting in plantar warts, which are similar in appearance to corns. Plantar warts are somewhat contagious and can also arise when the immune system is weakened. If your corns are increasing in number, it is important to promptly visit a dermatologist at a reputable hospital. Once a clear diagnosis is made, appropriate treatment options may include carbon dioxide laser therapy or cryotherapy using liquid nitrogen. If you are experiencing frequent corns, it is essential to wear loose-fitting shoes with soft soles, minimize walking, and avoid sitting for long periods.