Corns

Table of Contents

Other names

Clavus
Callous Corn
Foot Corn
Pressure Buildup Lesion

Synopsis

Corns are thickened, hardened areas of skin that develop in response to repeated pressure or friction, typically on the feet — especially over bony areas such as the tops or sides of toes, or the soles. They are a form of hyperkeratosis, where the body protects itself by building up skin. Corns can be hard (dry and dense) or soft (moist and rubbery, often between toes) and may cause pain or tenderness when walking or wearing shoes.

Corns are non-infectious and benign, but they can become inflamed or ulcerated if left untreated, particularly in people with diabetes or poor circulation. Proper foot care, footwear adjustments, and exfoliation are key to managing and preventing recurrence.

Types of Corns:

  • Hard Corns (Heloma Durum): Firm, dense, found on tops of toes or pressure points.

  • Soft Corns (Heloma Molle): Moist and rubbery, typically between toes where sweat collects.

  • Seed Corns: Tiny, discrete corns often found on the sole of the foot.

Common Causes:

  • Ill-fitting shoes (too tight, high heels, narrow toe boxes)

  • Repetitive friction or pressure (from walking or running)

  • Abnormal gait or foot structure (e.g., hammertoes, bunions)

  • Wearing shoes without socks

  • High-impact activities (e.g., dancing, hiking)

  • Not addressing small calluses before they develop into corns

Severity Factors:

  • Pain or discomfort when walking or wearing shoes

  • Inflammation or infection risk if the corn cracks or blisters

  • Complications in diabetics or individuals with neuropathy

When to See a Doctor:

  • If the corn is painful, inflamed, or bleeding

  • If you have diabetes or poor circulation

  • If over-the-counter treatments or home remedies are not effective

  • If the corn recurs frequently (may indicate a biomechanical problem)

  • If there is any sign of infection (redness, swelling, pus)

Natural Remedies

Soak feet in warm water: Softens the corn for easier removal.

Gently exfoliate: Use a pumice stone to reduce thickness (never cut corns).

Moisturize feet regularly: Keeps skin soft and prevents buildup.

Wear properly fitting shoes: Choose wide, supportive shoes with a roomy toe box.

Use protective pads or corn cushions: Reduce pressure during healing.

Alternate footwear: Reduces repeat pressure on the same area.

Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces: Especially if prone to corns.

Ingredients

These raw ingredients are often used in alternative medicine to treat this condition.

pomegranate
quercetin
resveratrol
spirulina
turmeric
vitamin C
zinc
aloe vera
anthocyanins
blueberry
bilberry
black currant
garlic bulb
ginger
green tea