Corns

Corns are localised thickened areas of densely packed skin cells. They are usually hard and circular with a central translucent area like a kernel of corn.

Types

Hard Corns (Heloma Durum)

These tend to form on boney prominances which are under excessive pressure. Usual sites for this corn type to form are:

• The metetarsals 1-5
• The outside of the little toe
• The tops of the toes
• The front of the toes

Soft Corns (Heloma Molle)

These usually appear in between the toes. They are often surrounded by white macerated tissue.

Seed Corns (Heloma Millare)

These corns appear as very small little kernals. Usually they appear in multiples. They can appear anywhere in the foot, but between the first and second metatarsal on the sole of the foot appears to be very common.

Treatment

Reduction of the overlying callous and enucleation (removal of the deep central core) of the corn is the primary treatment for corns.

Following this, either an antiseptic agent, protective pad or an acid is applied. The application of a caustic preparation known as silver nitrate can help to shrink the cavity that has been left after the corn has been removed.

As corns are almost always caused by excess pressure on the area attention must be paid to ensure that the shoes are a good fit.

Poor foot function can also be the cause of corns. The use of custom prescription Foot Orthotics can help to restore the feets correct balance and posture and prevent these high pressure areas from causing the reformation of the corn.

For the treatment of soft corns, the application of surgical spirits can help to tone up and improve the condition of the skin in between the toes.

Another successful treatment for soft corns is orthodigital silicone devices. These custom made toe moulds help to separate the toes and prevent the two bones from rubbing together.

Note

The use of corn lotions and corn plasters can seriously damage your skin if not used appropriately.

Always seek the advice of a state registered chiropodist, such as The Shand Practice.

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