Patient Education

Corns

Corns form on the toes due to friction or pressure from rubbing against footwear or even other toes. The friction and pressure thickens the skin and inflames underlying tissue. Corns can be soft; these are open sores between the toes. Hard corns develop on top of the toes or on the outside of the little toe. Ill-fitting footwear and toe deformities can cause corns.

Treat corns by soaking the foot in warm, soapy water, then rubbing the skin with a pumice or appropriate foot file. Donut-shaped foam pads can reduce friction and pressure on the corn. Podiatrists also have methods for reducing corns.