Why do corns keep increasing in number as they grow?

Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
Updated on March 06, 2025
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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.

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Written by He Da Wei
Dermatology
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Why do corns form on the feet?

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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Are corns and calluses the same thing?

Corns and calluses are generally different diseases. Generally speaking, corns are caused by long-term local compression and friction. In this case, it will lead to thickening changes in the stratum corneum, so it is relatively easy for this problem to occur on the soles of the feet. Warts, on the other hand, are a type of common wart caused by viral infection. This means that infections are more likely to occur when the body's immunity is low. Of course, this is also directly related to local discomfort or compression problems. However, there is an essential difference between the two diseases. Nevertheless, the general direction or principle of treatment for both diseases is similar, mainly involving local excision methods. Additionally, appropriate use of antivirals, or treatments such as laser therapy or cryotherapy, can also achieve the purpose of treatment and improvement.

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Written by Zhang Da Wei
General Surgery
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There are many small flesh spikes in the corn.

Corns often contain many small flesh spikes, and this condition might be due to plantar warts, caused by factors such as local compression and friction. This disease is actually a type of common wart, usually resulting from abnormal local skin proliferation, leading to keratinization. Physical therapy or surgical methods are generally used to improve this condition. Physical therapy mainly involves excision and separation, and it is essential to use some softening solutions to prevent extensive bleeding. Surgical options mainly include laser and cryotherapy, which can effectively treat and improve the condition, and further analysis and determination can be done based on the specific situation.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Can corns be contagious?

Corns are not contagious; this condition is usually caused by prolonged friction and compression. Corns are characterized by thickened skin, commonly found on the soles of the feet, the front-middle parts of the toes, and the outer edges of the little toes. If corns develop, it is important to eliminate the cause. If there is long-term friction or compression on the feet, it must be avoided. Wear appropriate shoes to reduce pressure and friction. For treatment, you can apply corn treatment ointments. (For specific medications, please administer them under the guidance of a professional physician and do not self-medicate blindly.)

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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What is the difference between a viral wart and a corn?

Viral warts and corns, though similar in appearance, have significant differences. In terms of cause, viral warts are caused by an infection of the human papillomavirus and are contagious. Corns, on the other hand, are not contagious and are caused by long-term pressure, friction, or tight shoes. In terms of treatment, corns can often be cured through laser treatment or medication. Viral warts need to be treated with antiviral medications, along with physical treatment methods such as cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor)