Corns and calluses often develop on feet and toes when your skin tries to protect itself against friction. In a healthy person, corns need to be treated only if they cause discomfort. Sometimes it can be as simple as eliminating the source of friction to cure corn.
However, sometimes, a surgical procedure may be required.
If you have noticed corns or calluses on your feet or toes, our surgeons will obtain x-rays and/or MRI to evaluate the extent of injury, perform an extensive physical examination, and review the surgical and non-surgical options to
reduce pain and deformity, along with recovery time, return to work, and activity.
What is a corn?
A corn is a hardened, raised bump most common on the toes. It may be painless or painful, and its skin is often thick, rough, flaky, or dry.
Corns commonly have a hard center surrounded by inflamed skin and develop where the feet undergo pressure, including the tops and sides of the toes and weight-bearing areas. Calluses usually develop on the soles and are often larger than corns.
Risk factors for corns
- Heel spurs
- Bunions
- Hammertoe
What causes corns?
Repeated friction and pressure are the most common causes of corns. Poorly fitting shoes and wearing shoes without socks can increase friction. An underlying condition such as a bunion or hammertoe deformity can also concentrate pressure in one area.
Our foot and ankle surgeons will evaluate your foot and provide a diagnosis.
Surgical removal of corns in NYC
This is a quick outpatient procedure that usually takes less than 20 minutes. First, a local anesthetic is used to numb the area; a sterile scalpel is used to carefully shave off the dead skin all the way to the root of the corn.
Also, if there is an underlying deformity such as a hammertoe or bunions causing this corn, this deformity can be surgically corrected to prevent the recurrence of corns. Our board-certified foot surgeons treat corns to relieve both the pain and the appearance.
If you have any further questions regarding the diagnosis or treatment of corns, our board-certified foot surgeon is available for a consultation.