Corns: causes and treatment

A corn (clavus) is a small, sharply defined area of hard skin with a hard core that presses into the tissue like a thorn. That is why it often hurts even under light pressure. Corns typically appear on the toes, between the toes or on the ball of the foot.

How do corns develop?

The skin protects itself against constant pressure and friction by forming callus. If the pressure always acts on the same small spot, a dense core forms. Common causes are:

• shoes that are too tight, pointed or high
• toe deformities such as hammer or claw toes
• foot deformities, e.g. splay foot
• seams or folds in socks and shoes

Corn or callus?

A callus is a flat thickening of the skin without a core – usually painless. A corn, on the other hand, has a deep core and hurts specifically under pressure.

Be careful with self-treatment

Corn plasters and tinctures usually contain salicylic acid, which softens the skin – unfortunately also the healthy skin around it. If you have diabetes, circulation problems or sensitive skin, do not use such products without professional advice, as wounds can develop. Cutting with a razor blade or scissors is also risky.

How we help

We remove the hard skin and gently take out the core, largely without pain – you usually feel relief immediately. To stop the corn from coming back, we also address the cause:

• pressure and friction protection with pads or custom-made silicone orthoses
• advice on suitable shoes
• for deformities, a recommendation for orthopaedic assessment or insoles

When is podiatry especially important?

If you have diabetes or take blood thinners, corns should always be treated professionally – even small injuries can heal poorly.