Why do corns develop?

Sep 30, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

In general, corns may be caused by prolonged friction and pressure, thickened stratum corneum, localized dry skin, rheumatoid arthritis, plantar warts, etc. Treatment methods include conservative management and medication. It is important to wear appropriate footwear, avoid prolonged standing or walking, and keep the feet clean and dry to prevent corns and other foot problems.

Generally, a corn is a localized skin condition caused by prolonged pressure and friction on the feet, leading to excessive thickening of the stratum corneum. Corns may be triggered by long-term friction and pressure, thickened stratum corneum, dryness of the local skin, rheumatoid arthritis, plantar warts, and other factors. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Prolonged Friction and Pressure

Wearing ill-fitting shoes for extended periods can cause persistent friction and pressure on the feet, resulting in corn formation. Choose well-fitted, comfortable footwear and avoid standing or walking for long durations.

2. Thickened Stratum Corneum

Natural thickening of the foot's stratum corneum, or abnormal keratinocyte metabolism due to genetic or age-related factors, may lead to corn development. Regularly use gentle exfoliating products to maintain soft foot skin.

3. Localized Skin Dryness

Dry environments or inadequate moisturizing care can cause moisture loss in foot skin, making it dry and prone to damage, which may contribute to corn formation. Maintain appropriate indoor humidity and regularly apply moisturizing creams or foot lotions to keep the skin hydrated.

4. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis, possibly caused by immune dysfunction, genetic factors, and others, leads to joint inflammation and deformity, altering normal gait and increasing friction and pressure on certain areas of the foot, thereby promoting corn formation. This may be accompanied by symptoms such as redness, swelling, and pain. Patients are advised to follow medical instructions and use medications such as enteric-coated diclofenac sodium tablets, methotrexate tablets, and prednisone tablets for treatment.

5. Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are typically caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). When subjected to friction and pressure, plantar warts may induce surrounding skin to undergo hyperkeratosis, forming lesions resembling corns. Symptoms may include pain and itching. It is recommended to use topical treatments such as imiquimod cream, salicylic acid ointment, or tretinoin cream under medical supervision to alleviate symptoms.

In daily life, it is important to wear appropriate footwear, avoid prolonged standing or walking, and keep the feet clean and dry to prevent corns and other foot problems.

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