What causes corns on the soles of the feet?

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on December 14, 2024
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Corns are mostly caused by the prolonged and repeated friction and compression of a foreign object that has entered the skin, resulting in a hyperproliferative lesion. They are generally small and can be completely treated with common corn ointments. However, if a corn has been present for a long time and has grown larger, it is recommended to seek treatment at a formal hospital's dermatology department using the method of liquid nitrogen freezing, which usually resolves the issue in one or two sessions. Some corns can become larger and may be painful or show signs of inflammation and infection. In such cases, it is advisable to visit a surgical or dermatology department for a minor minimally invasive surgery to completely remove it. When wearing shoes, it is essential to choose loose and soft-soled footwear, and avoid walking barefoot on surfaces to prevent foreign objects from entering and causing the recurrence of corns.

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Is a corn the same as a callus?

Skin tags are not the same as corns; they are two completely different conditions. Skin tags generally refer to abnormally proliferating tissue at the nail area, and also commonly refer to warts. Corns usually result from localized abnormal friction, causing proliferative growth of the soft tissue, typically located on the sole of the foot. Skin tags and common warts can also occur on the bottom of the feet, but skin tags usually appear as proliferative, tumor-like protrusions on the surface of the skin, whereas corns generally do not protrude above the surface of the skin.

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What is a corn like?

Corns are a common skin disease, closely related to prolonged standing or constant friction and compression under the feet. Corns consist of a hyperkeratosis forming a circular or oval, yellowish appearance. They generally cause severe pain once they develop, and prompt treatment is necessary. This can include the use of topical medications or physical therapy methods, such as laser treatment.

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Differentiation between Corns and Plantar Warts

Corns and plantar warts are two different skin conditions, although both often occur on the feet, they have significant differences. First, corns and plantar warts differ in contagion and quantity. Generally, corns appear singly and are not contagious; while plantar warts often appear in larger numbers and are highly contagious. Moreover, corns are usually caused by pressure or friction on the feet, whereas plantar warts are caused by a viral infection of the skin on the soles of the feet.

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Written by Zhang Da Wei
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Can corn plaster be used on warts?

Warts, commonly referred to as corns, are caused by viral infections. This condition is somewhat related to the individual’s immune system, so physical therapy can help improve the situation. Corn plasters can be effective for treating warts, but it is essential to avoid overusing them to prevent local damage and other issues. Additionally, there are other treatment options for warts, such as laser surgery, which can effectively address the problem. Surgical removal with a scalpel or podiatry knife can also completely eradicate the wart. Adapting the treatment method based on specific changes can lead to quicker recovery; however, it is crucial to prevent any infections associated with warts.

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Corns are treated in which department?

Corn is a relatively common condition. If you suffer from corns, it is recommended to consult dermatology or surgery for treatment. Corns are mainly caused by prolonged standing, or by wearing shoes that do not fit properly or are too tight. They usually appear individually. It is advised to seek treatment promptly at the dermatology or surgery department of a hospital. The primary treatment involves topical medications, but methods like laser or cryotherapy can also be employed.