Extremely Painful Corn On Bottom Of Foot
Corns are small, thickened, and hardened areas of skin that develop in response to friction or pressure. Corns usually occur on the feet, especially on the tops of the toes, between the toes, and on the soles of the feet. However, corns can also develop on the bottom of the foot, which can be very painful and difficult to treat.
Causes of Corns on the Bottom of the Foot
The primary cause of corns on the bottom of the foot is an excess amount of pressure or friction on the skin. This pressure can be due to a variety of factors, such as:
- Poorly fitting shoes that are too tight or too loose
- Wearing high heels or shoes without adequate support
- Having a deformity or misalignment of the foot or toes, such as hammer toes or bunions
- Walking or standing for long periods of time
- Obesity or excess weight
- Playing sports or engaging in physical activities that put pressure on the feet
Additionally, corns can also develop due to underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or an autoimmune disease, that affect the skin's ability to heal properly.
Symptoms of Corns on the Bottom of the Foot
If you have a corn on the bottom of your foot, you may experience the following symptoms:
- A small, hardened bump on the skin
- Pain or discomfort when walking or standing
- Sensitivity to pressure or touch
- A circular or cone-shaped area of thick, rough skin
If left untreated, corns can become infected and may require medical attention.
Treatment Options for Corns on the Bottom of the Foot
If you have a corn on the bottom of your foot, there are several treatment options available:
- Wear properly fitting shoes that are comfortable and provide adequate support
- Use protective pads or cushions to reduce pressure on the affected area
- Soak your feet in warm water to soften the skin before gently filing the corn with a pumice stone or emery board
- Apply a topical cream or ointment that contains salicylic acid to help dissolve the corn
If conservative treatments are not effective, your doctor may recommend more advanced treatment options, such as:
- Prescription-strength creams or ointments
- Cryotherapy, which involves freezing the corn with liquid nitrogen
- Trimming or shaving the corn with a scalpel
- Surgery to remove the corn or correct the underlying foot deformity
Preventing Corns on the Bottom of the Foot
There are several steps you can take to prevent corns on the bottom of your foot:
- Wear properly fitting shoes that are comfortable and provide adequate support
- Avoid wearing high heels or shoes that do not provide adequate support
- Use protective pads or cushions to reduce pressure on the feet
- Keep your feet clean and dry
- Moisturize your feet to prevent dry, cracked skin
- Trim your toenails regularly to prevent them from rubbing against your shoes
Final Thoughts
Corns on the bottom of the foot can be extremely painful and can make it difficult to walk or stand. However, with proper treatment and prevention, you can manage your symptoms and reduce your risk of developing new corns. If you have a corn on the bottom of your foot that is causing you pain or discomfort, schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your treatment options.