Corns
A corn refers to a localized thickening of the skin, especially on the toes, and extending into subcutaneous tissue. A corn is usually small and painful. They also occur at the sole of the foot and in between toes. Certain corns may become entwined with the nerves of the skin, these corns are particularly painful. Often corns develop a core. Corns can be very painful, especially if there is inflammation and swelling around the corn. Corns appear as white/ gray or yellow/ brown in color depending on the skin type.
Causes
Corns are calluses that form on the toes because the bones push up against the shoe and put pressure on the skin. The surface layer of the skin thickens and builds up, irritating the tissues underneath. Hard corns are usually located on the top of the toe or on the side of the small toe. Soft corns resemble open sores and develop between the toes as they rub against each other.
- Shoes that don't fit properly. If shoes are too tight, they squeeze the foot, increasing pressure. If they are too loose, the foot may slide and rub against the shoe, creating friction.
- Toe deformities, such as hammer toe or claw toe.
- High heeled shoes because they increase the pressure on the forefoot.
- Rubbing against a seam or stitch inside the shoe.
- Socks that don't fit properly.
- Using hand tools. Calluses on the hands may result from the repeated pressure of using tools on the job, around the house or in the garden.