Corns are thickened areas on the skin’s surface, to the point of being irritating and sometimes painful. Commonly found on the feet, corns are circular or cone-shaped. They develop where there are areas of pressure or friction, such as on the little toe when it rubs up against shoes, or on the ball of your foot.

Corns are often confused with a callus, but there is a difference between them. Corns can be raised bumps that are painful to the touch. They consist of a rough, thick area of skin that may be dry or waxy. 

Removing the dead skin that has built up is the key in treating corns. 

Another way to treat corns and help prevent their return is by using orthotic inserts like The Foot Chair adjustable orthotic.  This orthotic insert fits right into your shoes and adjusts the way your foot fits into your shoes. By being able to change the orthotic and make it higher or lower, you can take off more pressure from areas that have pressure and are developing a corn or callus. This will lower your chances of getting corns, and eliminate current corns.

Surgery is rarely used to treat corns, but does occur on occasion. Surgery actually deals with the underlying issue that causes corns. During surgery, the bone is shaved and any abnormalities are corrected, thus reducing the amount of friction that occurs during walking.

To prevent corns, the first step is reducing friction. Always wear shoes that fit well and don’t rub your feet. Pads can be purchased if you notice rubbing developing. These pads can be purchased over-the-counter, and can be simply placed on the irritated area.

Frequently, people fall for advertising gimmicks such as Memory Foam and other gel or foam products that increase cushion. Your foot will fall through cushion and foam and you won't take any pressure off the areas that are developing a corn or callus.  Therefore, you should stay away from that type of shoe or insert.