Houston TX Medical Spa
creventing and Treating Corns
Corns, also known as clavi, are buildups of thick skin resulting from excessive, repeated pressure and friction on a bony area of the foot. Unlike calluses, corns are distinguished by their location on the top of the toe and foot, or in the grooves between toes. They are generally cone-shaped, with a hard, knobby core that points inward. When rubbed or pressed, they can cause sharp, shooting pain.
Corns can be caused by a number of factors including:
- Pressure from too-tight shoes, socks, and high-heels
- Crooked or malformed toes
- Shoes that are too big, which result in sliding and friction
To prevent corns from forming, make sure you wear well-fitting footgear and thick (but not overly tight) socks. You can also rub petroleum jelly or lanolin cream over areas you think might be prone to such buildups, and place doughnut-shaped pads available at most drug stores over them to relieve any immediate pain.
Dealing with a Corn
If you happen to be facing a particularly nasty corn problem, it is probably a good idea to attempt to remove it. Start by soaking that area of the foot in warm water for five minutes, until the tissue is exceptionally soft. Using a pumice stone or similar scraping agent, slowly rub the corn down. It may necessary to repeat this process over the course of several days. Never cut or trim the corn with a blade, as this only presents the possibility of infection.
Contact Us
For more help dealing with corns and other unsightly, painful foot problems, contact the Houston foot care specialists at Dermagenix today by calling 713-662-3376.