Corn On Ball Of Foot Very Painful
One of the most common foot problems is corn on the ball of the foot. This condition is a thickening of the skin that occurs when there is too much pressure and friction on the ball of the foot. Corns can be very painful and they can make it difficult to walk or stand for long periods of time. In this article, we'll take a closer look at corns on the ball of the foot, what causes them, and how they can be treated.
Causes of Corns on the Ball of the Foot
Corns on the ball of the foot are typically caused by wearing shoes that are too tight or too loose. When shoes are too tight, they can rub against the skin on the ball of the foot, causing friction and pressure. When shoes are too loose, the foot can slide around inside the shoe, creating similar friction and pressure.
Other factors that can contribute to corns on the ball of the foot include:
- Walking or standing on hard surfaces for extended periods of time
- Having a foot deformity that causes increased pressure on the ball of the foot
- Not wearing socks with shoes
- Wearing shoes with high heels or thin soles
Symptoms of Corns on the Ball of the Foot
The most common symptom of corns on the ball of the foot is pain. The pain can be sharp or dull and can be felt when walking or standing. The skin around the corn may also be swollen and tender to the touch. Some people may experience a burning or tingling sensation in the affected area.
Treatment for Corns on the Ball of the Foot
If you have a corn on the ball of your foot, there are several things you can do to relieve the pain and discomfort. The first step is to remove the source of the pressure and friction that caused the corn in the first place. This may mean changing your shoes or wearing orthotics to help distribute pressure more evenly across your foot.
You can also soak your feet in warm water to soften the skin and make it easier to remove the corn. Once the skin is soft, you can gently file down the corn with a pumice stone or file. Be sure to avoid using sharp instruments, such as razors, as they can cause further damage to the skin.
If self-treatment doesn't work, you may need to see a podiatrist. A podiatrist can apply protective padding to the affected area to reduce pressure and friction. They may also prescribe medication to help reduce inflammation and pain.
Prevention of Corns on the Ball of the Foot
The best way to prevent corns on the ball of the foot is to wear shoes that fit properly and provide adequate support and cushioning. You should also avoid wearing high heels or shoes with thin soles for extended periods of time. If you have a foot deformity, such as a hammertoe or bunion, talk to your doctor about ways to reduce pressure on the ball of the foot.
Another way to prevent corns on the ball of the foot is to wear socks with your shoes. Socks can help to absorb moisture and prevent friction between your foot and the shoe. You should also make sure to keep your feet clean and dry to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi that can cause infections.
Conclusion
Corns on the ball of the foot are a common foot problem that can be very painful and make it difficult to walk or stand. They are typically caused by pressure and friction on the skin of the ball of the foot, often due to ill-fitting shoes. Treatment for corns on the ball of the foot may involve self-treatment or seeing a podiatrist. Prevention is key, and wearing properly fitting shoes, wearing socks, and keeping your feet clean and dry can help to reduce the risk of developing corns on the ball of the foot.