Why do corns form on the feet?

Written by He Da Wei
Dermatology
Updated on October 24, 2024
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Corns on the feet are caused by long-term compression or friction, leading to excessive proliferation of the stratum corneum and thickening of the stratum corneum. Corns commonly occur in adults, particularly in women, and are frequently found on pressure-bearing areas such as the feet, soles, the inner edges of the big toe, the outer sides of the little toes, as well as the heels and tips of the toes which are areas of friction and pressure. The skin lesions are clearly defined, either light yellow or deep yellow in color, shaped like a cone with a smooth and slightly raised surface. Because they compress the peripheral nerves in the dermis, walking or when pressure is applied, the pain is quite noticeable.

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Written by Zhang Da Wei
General Surgery
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Can corns be treated with corn plaster?

Corns themselves are caused by viral infections, and medically they are referred to as corns. Thus, they can be improved through medication. Corns also represent a type of local skin proliferation, so if you want to completely remove them, specific treatment is necessary to make improvements. Medications can achieve certain therapeutic effects, but it is relatively easy for them to recur after treatment. Therefore, in daily life, it is important to specifically enhance immunity, then avoid repeated outbreaks and local pressure to prevent recurrence. In everyday life, you can also go to a hospital or a specialized foot care center for specific local treatment. Complete cure is necessary to avoid repeated issues as much as possible. Additionally, once immunity is improved, the chances of recurrence will decrease.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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What medicine to buy for a corn?

Corns are a type of skin disease formed due to long-term friction and compression. The cause of corns is often related to standing for long periods or wearing ill-fitting or tight shoes. For treating corns, it is advised to primarily use topical medications, which can be directly applied or used as a corn plaster. Besides topical creams, some physical treatments such as carbon dioxide laser, cryotherapy, and X-ray irradiation can also be used.

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Written by Zhang Da Wei
General Surgery
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Is a corn the same as a callus?

Skin tags are not corns, as skin tags are a type of common wart caused by a viral infection, often related to local pressure or injury, but the two conditions have different factors. Corns are more likely to be caused by a fungal infection, while skin tags are more likely associated with viral infections. Skin tags are mainly related to issues with the immune system. The appearance of skin tags can also be influenced by external factors such as local pressure, friction, and injury. The treatment methods for these conditions are similar, yet this does not mean they are the same disease. It is necessary to understand the different mechanisms and causes of each condition and then address them with appropriate treatment methods.

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Written by Zhang Da Wei
General Surgery
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The difference between corns and calluses.

Firstly, a corn is a type of common wart, and it actually has clear differences from a callus. Common warts generally occur on the soles of the feet, or on the proliferative protruding surface, typically characterized by specific manifestations. In such cases, there usually are also prominent manifestations, and these conditions can also cause some minor pain. On the other hand, calluses are completely the opposite of corns. The surface of a callus is generally not protruding, meaning the skin is flat and usually quite smooth. In this respect, there is a fundamental difference on the surface. Moreover, calluses can potentially be caused by local compression factors. As for corns, they are usually caused by lowered immunity. That is, viral infections are what lead to the problem of corns.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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Why do corns keep increasing in number as they grow?

Corns growing in number and size is usually linked to wearing tight shoes and compression. They are also related to localized friction and irritation. Another possibility to consider when corns multiply is an infection caused by human papillomavirus resulting in plantar warts, which are similar in appearance to corns. Plantar warts are somewhat contagious and can also arise when the immune system is weakened. If your corns are increasing in number, it is important to promptly visit a dermatologist at a reputable hospital. Once a clear diagnosis is made, appropriate treatment options may include carbon dioxide laser therapy or cryotherapy using liquid nitrogen. If you are experiencing frequent corns, it is essential to wear loose-fitting shoes with soft soles, minimize walking, and avoid sitting for long periods.