How do seed corns form?
Both seed corns and calluses are the skin’s way of protecting itself from repetitive friction, rubbing, and other chronic irritation. Corns and calluses commonly develop on the feet from wearing shoes which fit poorly.
A seed corn is actually a collection of many small corns. It appears as a dry, stiff bump with an overall seed-like appearance. These can technically form anywhere on the feet, yet are typically found on the bottom of the heel and the ball of the foot.
Corns in and of themselves aren’t problematic unless they’re causing the patient pain. Many times they don’t require treatment beyond wearing shoes which fit properly.
Shoes and corn formation
Corns develop as a direct response to constant rubbing, and tend to form on areas of dry skin. In the majority of cases the underlying cause of these chronic friction injuries are ill fitting shoes, especially high heels. When shoes are too loose, excessive rubbing occurs in the same areas, prompting the skin to grow thicker. If the process continues long enough a corn is formed. Any potential source of friction, whether a seam, stitch, or overly-tight toe box, can eventually lead to a corn.
Socks and corn formation.
Socks are the best means of avoiding excessive friction when wearing shoes. By the same token, if socks are too loose or too tight they can contribute to corn formation.
Repetitive Stress and Overuse
Any repetitive movement can subject the skin to enough chronic strain to cause a corn. This includes walking and running for long distances, especially up and down hills. Even standing for long periods on hard surfaces can lead to corns. An uneven gait often causes the feet to bear weight differently, and has the potential to cause seed corns. In reality, there are as many ways to form corns as there are standing, weight-bearing activities.
Congenital and Acquired Foot Deformities
Any condition which alters the shape of the foot has the potential to cause corn formation. Bone spurs which form at the ends of bones often cause excessive rubbing which can lead to corns. Bunions, which are nothing more than bony bumps, also hasten corn development. Hammertoes and other forms of fixed, unnatural joint contracture often cause corns to form as well.
How To Treat Seed Corns At Home?
Seed corns aren’t something that are so hard to treat, you can get rid of your problem with some home remedies but every patients take time to heal so don’t expect sudden results.
Here are some home remedies to treat seed corns:
1. Soak Your Feet
If you soak your feet in warm water for 10 to 20 minutes your seed corns will get soft this will make it easier for you to remove them.
You can soak your feet every day in warm or soapy water and try to remove them when they are soft.
You can apply moisturizer on your skin as well, this will help you keep your skin hydrated.
Staying hydrated means a soft and healthy skin which will help you remove your corns.
2. Avoid Thickening Of The Skin
Thickened skin can increase the chances of you developing corns and seed corns, so you must try your best to avoid thickening of the skin, here are some tips to help you:
• File Away Your Corns:
Filing away your thickened skin isn’t a hard task but be careful while doing it or you may damage your skin. You can use a pumice stone to do this but don’t overdo it or you may damage your skin which can cause infections.
3. Use Over-The-Counter Products
There are many OTC products that will help you get rid of Cornish because they contain an acid called Salicylic acid.
This acid will soften your skin and make it easier for you to scrape them away.
You can by lotions, corn scrubs, ointments and medicines and you can buy them at any medical stores.
4. Wear A Proper Footwear
Corns can be easily prevented and treated if you wear a comfortable footwear. Try shoes or Sandals that provide a lot of space!
Can corns and calluses be removed permanently?
Corns and calluses can be treated and removed, but it may not be possible to remove them permanently. The best way to prevent them from returning is to address the underlying cause, such as wearing properly fitting shoes, using protective pads, and maintaining good foot hygiene. Regularly using a pumice stone or foot file to gently exfoliate the skin can also help prevent their recurrence. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove particularly large or painful corns and calluses, but even then, without addressing the underlying cause, they may return.
Can corns and calluses be a sign of an underlying health condition?
Corns and calluses are usually caused by friction or pressure on the skin, often from wearing ill-fitting shoes or engaging in activities that repeatedly stress the same area of the foot. However, in some cases, they can be a sign of an underlying health condition. For example:
- Foot Deformities: Conditions like hammertoe or claw toe can cause corns to form where the toes rub against the shoe.
- Abnormal Gait: Walking abnormalities can lead to increased pressure on certain areas of the foot, resulting in calluses.
- Bone Spurs: These bony growths can press against the skin, causing corns or calluses to form.
- Diabetes: People with diabetes are at higher risk of developing foot problems, including corns and calluses, due to poor circulation and nerve damage.
Can wearing certain types of shoes cause corns and calluses?
Yes, wearing certain types of shoes can cause corns and calluses. Shoes that are too tight, too loose, or have high heels can create friction and pressure on the skin, leading to the formation of corns and calluses. Shoes with seams, stitching, or rough areas inside can also contribute to their development. It’s important to wear properly fitting shoes to prevent corns and calluses.