Think you have a corn?

Book an appointment to have a Registered Podiatrist diagnose your pain and proscribe you a treatment today!

 

 

What Is a Corn?

A corn is a small, concentrated area of thickened skin that develops due to repeated pressure or friction. Unlike calluses, corns are usually smaller, deeper, and can be painful due to a central core pressing into the skin.

They commonly appear on the tops and sides of toes or on weight-bearing areas of the feet.

What Causes Corns?

Corns develop when the skin tries to protect itself from ongoing pressure. Common causes include:

  • Tight or ill-fitting shoes

  • High heels or narrow footwear

  • Toe deformities (e.g. hammer toes)

  • Friction between toes

  • Abnormal walking patterns

Types of Corns

Understanding the type of corn helps determine the best treatment:

Hard Corns

  • Small, dense areas of thick skin

  • Usually found on the tops of toes

Soft Corns

  • Develop between toes

  • Softer due to moisture

  • Often more prone to infection

Seed Corns

  • Tiny corns on the sole of the foot

  • Can appear in clusters

Signs and Symptoms of Corns

You may have a corn if you notice:

  • A small, raised, hardened bump

  • Pain when walking or wearing shoes

  • Tenderness around the affected area

  • A central core within the thickened skin

Corn Removal Treatment Options

At-Home Treatments

  • Padding to reduce pressure

  • Wearing properly fitted shoes

⚠️ Caution: Over-the-counter treatments may damage healthy skin if not used correctly.

Professional Corn Removal

The safest and most effective option:

Podiatry Corn Removal (Debridement)

  • Corn is carefully reduced using sterile instruments

  • Immediate relief from pain and pressure

  • Quick and painless procedure

Pressure Relief & Padding

  • Protects the area from further friction

  • Helps prevent recurrence

Footwear Advice

  • Identifies the cause of pressure

  • Recommends better-fitting shoes

Orthotics (If Needed)

  • Custom insoles to redistribute pressure

  • Prevents corns from returning

What Happens During Corn Removal?

A typical appointment includes:

  1. Assessment of the corn and underlying cause

  2. Safe removal of the hardened skin

  3. Reduction of the central core

  4. Advice on prevention and footwear

Does Corn Removal Hurt?

  • Professional removal is mostly painless

  • You may sometimes feel pressure and very slight pain depending on depth.

  • Immediate relief is common after treatment

Recovery and Aftercare

Healing Time

  • Instant improvement after treatment

  • Ongoing care needed to prevent recurrence

Aftercare Tips

  • Wear properly fitted footwear

  • Use protective padding if needed

  • Keep feet moisturised

  • Attend regular podiatry visits

Can Corns Come Back?

Yes, if the source of pressure or friction is not addressed. Preventative care is essential.

When to See a Podiatrist

Seek professional help if:

  • The corn is painful

  • It keeps coming back

  • Home treatments are not working

  • You have underlying conditions like Diabetes mellitus

Risks of DIY Corn Removal

Trying to cut or remove a corn yourself can lead to:

  • Infection

  • Bleeding

  • Damage to healthy skin

  • Worsening of the condition

Benefits of Professional Corn Removal

  • Immediate pain relief

  • Safe and sterile treatment

  • Identification of underlying causes

  • Prevention of recurrence

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does corn removal take?

Usually 15–30 minutes.

Can I walk after treatment?

Yes, with immediate relief in most cases.

Are corns dangerous?

Not usually, but they can become painful and lead to complications if untreated.

Is corn removal permanent?

It can be, if the underlying cause is corrected.