A corn is thick and hardened skin that forms around the area where the skin receives maximum pressure or friction. The common symptoms of corn are thick, rough, and hardened skin with a raised bump. The most common cause of corns is ill-fitting footwear. Ill-fitting shoes can produce undue friction to the skin, which later develops into a corn. Also, if you do not wear socks, the chances of getting a corn are even more because socks generally provide a cushion and help reduce friction on the skin. Occasionally, corns can be painful besides being a cause of general discomfort.
If the corn is in much advanced stage, a surgical treatment in consultation with a medical practitioner may be necessary. There are, however, a number of home remedies that are worth trying out. To soften the skin, you can try soaking your feet in a solution of Epsom salt and lukewarm water. You should try this every day for about 15 minutes. After soaking your feet, make a practice to rub the hardened skin gently with pumice stone. However, rubbing with pumice stone is not recommended if you are a diabetes patient. You should also apply proper moisturizing cream on the skin to keep them soft all day long. Ensure that you wear cotton socks or keep your foot padded with specially medicated corn pads. Apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, and essential oils are also helpful in treating corns. Another practiced method to treat corns is by applying raw papaya juice. There are some advices available about how to cut corns, but it is better not to try them on your own, as they may lead to complications and give you an infection. Instead, you can try an alternative approach. Soak the corn in apple cider vinegar for about 10-minutes, then paste a duct tape over it and leave it overnight. Peel off the duct tape in the morning. Continue this procedure for about a week and see if the corn shows any sign of coming off on its own.
Besides these home remedies, it is also important that you take some preventive measures to contain the growth of corn. Always wear fitting shoes that is comfortable to your feet; it should not rub or pinch your skin. Wear cotton socks that protect your skin and also retain moisture. Do not put undue pressure on your feet. If you are required to walk or stand for long duration at work, wear extra protective padding. Finally, if the corn still doesn't show any sign of going away, consult a dermatologist and get your hard skin removed for good with a surgical procedure.
answered by G R