There are different possible reasons seed corns occur, but there is no denying that a large part of the population has experienced the discomfort that often comes with them. Therefore, many want to know how to treat seed corns on the ball of the foot. If you’re among those who wish to know the answers to the most efficient corn removal ways, all you have to do is keep reading.
What Causes the Seed Corns on the Ball of Your Foot?
The most common cause of seed corn development is repetitive stress to the skin. In most cases, there is constant pressure and friction the foot experiences due to ill-fitting shoes. Additionally, socks that are too loose or too tight can also contribute to seed corn formation.
However, keep in mind that it is also a common condition with people who lead an active lifestyle and those who stand for a long period of time due to overuse.
How to Treat Seed Corns on the Ball of the Foot With Home Remedies?
Fortunately, medical attention is not necessary in most cases when you’re dealing with seed corns, especially if you start treating this condition on time. Here are some home treatment options you should explore.
Soaking the Feet in Warm Water
Corns on the bottom of your feet are well-defined, round spots of hardened skin, so your first step should be softening the affected areas. One of the best ways of doing so is by soaking your feet in a warm bath (if you’re experiencing a lot of corn foot pain, you can add Epsom salt to the bath). Keep your feet soaked for approximately ten minutes.
Paring Down the Seed Corn With a Pumice Stone
After the skin has become a little bit softer, use a pumice stone to file away the dead skin (move the stone circularly or sideways). Since this is a process that you should repeat every day for several weeks, don’t try to remove too much skin at once – it will only lead to an infected corn.
Applying a Salicylic Acid Plaster
Salicylic acid products, including plasters, are known to help with corn removal quickly by dissolving the keratin. However, when not used correctly, these plasters can damage healthy skin, so make sure to use them as instructed.
Can You Use Over-the-Counter Medicine?
Salicylic acid products are over-the-counter medicines you can use, but they are not the only ones. You can also use other topical creams and gels containing skin-softening products, such as aloe vera or urea. However, even when using over-the-counter medicine, it’s advisable to soak and scrape the affected area for the best results.
When Should You Consult Your Foot Doctor?
If previously mentioned home treatments don’t show results, and you continue to feel discomfort and pain, try looking for a corn removal surgery clinic and consulting with the experts in this field. Additionally, if you have some medical condition that impacts your blood flow (such as diabetes), consult with your doctor before trying to get rid of corns on your own.
Schedule a Checkup With Your Surgeon in Miami and Get Rid of Seed Corns
If you’ve determined that your condition would best be treated with the experts’ help, your next step should be finding a reliable surgical team and determining if you’re the right candidate for foot corn surgery. Our experienced staff at Luxe Foot Surgery is happy to provide you with a free consultation and assist you in getting rid of a seed corn quickly and permanently. All you have to do is contact us, which you can do over the phone or online, and book your appointment.
FAQ
What Causes a Seed Corn on the Ball of the Foot?
The most common reasons seed corns occur are ill-fitting shoes and socks, but they may also form due to overuse (during exercising or even standing).
Can You Pull a Corn Out of Your Foot?
It’s not safe to try to pull a corn out on your own due to the risk of infection. It’s always a better solution to let medical professionals cut it out.
What Happens if a Seed Corn Is Left Untreated?
Leaving a seed corn untreated can lead to acute pain as well as a higher risk of infection, which will only further complicate the condition.
References
- DeNiel Foot & Ankle Center. (n.d.). What You Need to Know About Seed Corns. Retrieved from https://denielfootandanklecenter.com/seed-cord/#
- Mayo Clinic. (2020, October 1). Salicylic acid (topical route): Precautions. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/salicylic-acid-topical-route/precautions/drg-20066030?p=1#
- Medical News Today. (2020, March 4). How do you get rid of corns? Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325897#
- Healthline. (2021, July 22). How to Get Rid of Corns at Home. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-get-rid-of-corns#
