Foot corn and calluses are hardened layers of skin that develop mainly on the main pressure points of your foot. So, if you have this problem, you’re probably wondering – What are the causes and treatment options of corn on the ball of my foot? Is corn removal surgery necessary? We’ve compiled everything you need to know about the symptoms of this condition and ways to deal with it.
What Causes Corn on the Ball of the Foot?
Foot corn develops due to frequent irritation and pressure on the bony parts of your feet, especially on the ball of the foot or around your toes. Here are some of the most common scenarios that cause the development of foot corn:
- Ill-fitting shoes, pointed dress shoes, or high heels,
- Not wearing socks with shoes,
- Abnormal foot structure or walking tendencies.
Corn on the Ball of My Foot – What Are the Symptoms?
If there are dense patches of skin on the ball of your foot, or you’re experiencing burning and pain around these parts, chances are you’re dealing with foot corn. While it’s easily treated, if it’s not done on time, the corn can grow larger in size and even get infected. The best thing to do in that case is to consult a specialist about undergoing a corn removal surgery.
How to Make a Difference Between Corns and Calluses?
Both calluses and corns are thick, hardened parts of the skin that form due to frequent friction and pressure. While calluses typically develop on the sides and soles of your feet, corn is actually a type of callus that forms on the thin portions of the skin, such as the top of the foot or around the toes.
Foot corns come in three forms – soft, hard, and seed. The last type most commonly forms on the bottom of your toes and foot, so if you have thickened skin around those areas, you’re most probably dealing with a seed corn.
Who Can Get Corns?
While everyone can potentially get a foot corn, if you’re frequently putting a lot of pressure on certain parts of your feet, you’re more likely to deal with this condition sooner or later. Also, you’re more likely to get it if you already have a medical condition such as hammertoe deformity, bone spurs, arthritis, or bunions on your big toe. That’s because the abnormal foot structure will increase the friction that causes the corn to form.
What Are the Treatment Options Available?
Luckily, foot corn is easily treated and won’t cause many problems if it’s dealt with on time. While having comfortable shoes and avoiding wearing them without socks is a good way to prevent corn from developing, there are also a few treatment options you should try out if you already have them. Here are some of them:
- Using an emery board or pumice stone to carefully remove the dead tissue,
- Using medicated patches or over-the-counter medicine,
- Moisturizing your feet with lotions and oils,
- Regularly cleaning your feet.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If the foot corn on the ball of your foot becomes larger in size or painful to the touch, it’s a good idea to consult a specialist about it, especially if you’re dealing with an underlying health condition like diabetes. On the other hand, it’s absolutely necessary to do so if you’re experiencing intense pain and signs of infection like redness, swelling, or discharge oozing out of the corn.
Schedule the Corn Removal Procedure With Your Surgeon in Miami
If there’s pain, redness, or general discomfort on the ball of your foot, it’s time to get in touch with experienced specialists at Luxe Foot Surgery clinic. They will help you at every step of the way, from getting the corn surgery removal procedure to dealing with pain after the surgery is done. You can find all the necessary information on our website, so contact us and schedule your free consultation as soon as possible.
FAQ
What Does a Corn Look Like on the Ball of Your Foot?
Corn on the ball of your foot is known as a seed corn, and it is a thickened layer of skin formed on the main pressure points on the bottom of your feet.
Can You Pick a Corn off Your Foot?
Picking a corn off your foot by yourself is not recommended because it can lead to other complications if not done properly. It’s best to consult a specialist about getting rid of the foot corn.
Should You Dig Out a Corn?
Digging out a corn by yourself is not recommended because it can lead to complications if you’re not safe enough while doing so. Consulting a specialist about it is the best option.
Do Corns Go Away on Their Own?
If the friction that caused it to develop disappears, a foot corn can eventually go away on its own. However, there are several treatment options that can speed up this process, such as moisturizing or using medicated pads.
References
- Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Corns and Calluses. [online] Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16896-corns-and-calluses [Accessed 10 Feb 2023].
- Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Corns and Calluses. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/corns-and-calluses/symptoms-causes/syc-20355946 [Accessed 10 Feb 2023].
- Healthline. (n.d.). How to Get Rid of Corns at Home. [online] Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-get-rid-of-corns [Accessed 10 Feb 2023].
- Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Centers. (n.d.). Corns and Calluses. [online] Available at: https://www.afacc.net/foot-problems/corns-calluses/ [Accessed 10 Feb 2023].
- American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). How to Treat Corns and Calluses. [online] Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/injured-skin/burns/treat-corns-calluses [Accessed 10 Feb 2023].
