Find out why corns develop on the feet and how to get rid of them.
Corns are hard patches of skin that develop when there is too much pressure or friction placed on a skin surface over time. Even though 
corns are usually nothing to worry about if you are healthy, it’s important to know how to treat the issue at home and when to turn our podiatrist in Scarborough and Windham, ME, Dr. Peter Ocampo, for treatment.
How do I know that I have a corn?
It’s possible that you are dealing with a corn if you notice a thick patch of skin on your feet. This thick patch of rough skin usually forms a hard, raised bump, and is sometimes tender or painful to the touch.
Is a corn the same thing as a callus?
These two things may sound similar but they are a bit different. Calluses are also thickened areas of skin, but unlike corns, they don’t typically cause pain or become sore. You’re also more likely to see corns developing in less weight-bearing areas such as between the toes or on the sides of your toes.
I have a corn. Should I see a doctor?
If the corn is painful or inflamed then it’s a good idea to visit our one of our offices in Scarborough and Windham, ME, for an evaluation. Those with diabetes or poor circulation in the feet should seek treatment right away to prevent an ulcer from forming.
How are corns treated?
When it comes to treating corns, the goal is to avoid certain habits that could make the problem worse or cause another corn to develop. This includes wearing properly fitted shoes that don’t rub against your feet, as well as applying a protective non-medicated pad to the corn before putting on shoes.
However, if the corn doesn’t go away on its own or if it’s extraordinarily painful, then our podiatrist may need to surgically remove it. Sometimes the podiatrist will carefully trim away the hard layer of skin to remove the corn (this is something you should never try at home) or your foot doctor may recommend applying an over-the-counter medicated patch to the corn and then pumicing away the hard layer of skin gradually over time.
Soaking your feet in warm water can also soften the skin and make it easier to file away the corn (just be careful not to file too much of the skin, which can lead to bleeding and infection).
Need treatment? Give us a call!
Southern Maine Foot & Ankle is proud to serve the Scarborough and Windham, ME, areas. If you are dealing with corns, calluses, or other foot problems and you aren’t sure what to do about them, call our office today: (207) 883-0865 for Scarborough and (207) 892-5072 for Windham