A corn — also known as a heloma or, in fancier terms, a focal intractable plantar hyperkeratosis — is a type of thickened skin that forms in response to pressure. Think of it as a little pebble under your skin that just won’t quit. It can be painful, persistent, and downright annoying… unless, of course, you have a great foot care nurse on your team (wink wink).
🔍 Common Signs and Symptoms of Corns
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Sharp or aching pain at a pressure point on the foot
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A hard, raised nodule of skin
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Skin bruising or breakdown beneath the hardened area
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May resemble a wart (don’t worry — your foot care professional can tell the difference)
🦶 What Causes Corns?
Corns often form when pressure and friction repeatedly affect one area of your foot. Common culprits include:
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Tight or ill-fitting shoes
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Structural changes like bunions or hammer toes
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Arthritis or joint misalignment
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Dry, thickened skin
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Occasionally, blocked sweat glands
🛠️ Treatment & Prevention
The key to treating a corn is simple: remove the pressure.
This might involve:
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Switching to properly fitted footwear
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Using pressure-relieving padding
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Trying custom orthotics to correct alignment
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Daily skincare with softening agents like urea
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Lightly filing dry skin with a foot file (never on wet skin)
For deeper, longer-lasting relief, a qualified foot care nurse can safely reduce or remove the corn using sterile tools and professional techniques.
🚫 Avoid medicated corn pads — these over-the-counter treatments can easily damage healthy skin if used improperly.
👣 You Don’t Have to Live With Corns
Corns can be stubborn, but they’re absolutely treatable — and preventable. With the right care and the right clinician, your feet can feel better, faster.
📞 Book your foot care treatment today
Call: 250-929-3206
Email: booking@longevityservices.ca