Corns

Sports Medicine & Orthopedics in Valdosta, GA

Corns can cause pain, irritation, and discomfort while walking or wearing shoes. When pressure or friction persists, these thickened areas of skin can worsen without proper treatment. At Valdosta Orthopedic Associates in Valdosta, Georgia, the specialists provide expert evaluation and treatment for corns to relieve discomfort and help prevent recurrence. Call the office or schedule your appointment online today.

Corns & Calluses

What Are Corns?


A corn is a small, circular area of thickened skin that develops due to continuous friction or pressure. Corns commonly form on the soles of the feet or on the tops and sides of the toes. They often appear as yellowish, hardened tissue surrounding a tender center.


Pain and discomfort may occur during walking or when wearing shoes, and symptoms can worsen if left untreated.

What Causes Corns?

Ill-fitting footwear is the most common cause of corns. Tight shoes place excessive pressure on certain areas of the foot, while loose shoes allow the foot to rub repeatedly against the shoe. High-heeled or pointed-toe shoes can concentrate pressure on a single area.



Corns may also develop over underlying bone deformities, such as hammertoes or claw toes, where joints are abnormally bent.

What Are the Treatment Options for Corns?

Treatment focuses on relieving pressure and addressing the underlying cause to prevent recurrence. Your provider may recommend:


  • Properly fitted footwear to reduce friction
  • Protective pads or cushioning to relieve pressure
  • Soaks or topical treatments to soften hardened skin
  • Careful trimming of thickened skin by a healthcare professional

If an underlying bone deformity is contributing to corn formation, treatment for that condition may also be recommended.

What Are Calluses?

Calluses are thick, hardened areas of skin that develop as a protective response to repeated rubbing or pressure. They most often appear on the weight-bearing areas of the feet, including the heels, balls of the feet, big toes, and sides of the feet.


Calluses may also develop on the hands, such as on the fingertips of guitar players or the palms of gymnasts, weightlifters, or individuals performing manual labor.

What Causes Calluses?

Common causes of calluses include:


  • Shoes that are too tight or that rub against the skin
  • High-heeled footwear that increases pressure on the ball of the foot
  • Prolonged standing, walking, or running
  • Certain sports or occupational activities
  • Walking or running barefoot
  • Improper walking or running technique
  • Structural foot deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes

What Are the Symptoms of Calluses?

Symptoms of calluses may include:



  • Thick, flattened patches of skin
  • Hardened or rough skin texture
  • Reduced sensitivity or numbness
  • Pain or tenderness
  • Redness or inflammation
  • Cracks in the skin

How Are Calluses Diagnosed?

Calluses are usually diagnosed through a visual examination. Your provider may ask about your medical history, daily activities, or footwear habits to help determine contributing factors.

How Are Calluses Treated?

Calluses may be managed with conservative care, including:


  • Daily soaking of the affected area in warm water
  • Gentle filing with a pumice stone or emery board
  • Regular use of moisturizing creams or lotions
  • Protective padding to reduce pressure and irritation
  • Ice therapy to reduce swelling and discomfort
     

Additional treatments may include professional trimming of excess skin, medicated patches, custom shoe inserts, or surgical correction of underlying bone alignment issues when necessary.

How Can Corns and Calluses Be Prevented?

Preventive measures include:


  • Wearing properly fitted, supportive footwear
  • Trimming toenails regularly
  • Taking breaks from repetitive activities
  • Modifying activities that cause repeated friction
  • Wearing protective gloves or gear during manual work

Expert Corn and Callus Care in Valdosta, GA

If corns or calluses are causing pain or affecting your mobility, the specialists at Valdosta Orthopedic Associates can help. Serving patients throughout Valdosta, Georgia, the team provides personalized care to relieve discomfort and prevent recurrence. Call today or schedule your appointment online.