Experts emphasize that corns, commonly seen on the feet that carry the body’s weight throughout the day, are actually a defense mechanism of the skin. However, when neglected, they can turn into a painful condition. Triggered by many factors ranging from poor shoe choices to gait disorders, experts issued important warnings about the prevention and treatment of corns.
Highlighting that preventing the formation of corns is more important than treating them, Instructor Meldağ Turhan from the Department of Podology advised: “Choose shoes that fit your feet well, are soft, and breathable. If possible, take short breaks during the day to give your feet a chance to rest. Wearing cotton socks also helps your feet breathe.”
Instructor Meldağ Turhan from Uskudar University Vocational School of Health Services, Department of Podology, addressed the issue of corns that threaten foot health.
The skin thickens to protect itself
Pointing out that feet are exposed to various pressures and frictions while carrying the body’s load throughout the day, Turhan said: “This condition may eventually activate the skin’s defense mechanism, causing it to thicken. One of the most common examples of such thickening is a corn. A corn is a thickened layer of skin that usually develops in areas exposed to constant friction or pressure. They are most often seen on the soles, toes, and sometimes the hands. A corn is essentially the skin’s way of protecting itself; however, if left untreated, it can cause pain and discomfort.”
The formation process of corns
Instructor Meldağ Turhan explained the formation process of corns as follows: “Pressure or friction: Walking for long periods on hard surfaces or wearing shoes that do not fit properly creates constant pressure on certain areas of the skin. Skin defense mechanism: The skin tries to protect itself against this pressure and thickens, forming a corn. Hardening over time: A corn that is initially soft may gradually become harder and more painful.”
What factors increase the formation of corns?
Instructor Meldağ Turhan also noted that certain lifestyle habits and poor shoe choices can increase the risk of corns: “Improper shoe choice: Tight, narrow, or ill-fitting shoes increase friction. Standing for long periods: Especially those who work on hard floors such as teachers or waiters are at higher risk. High heeled shoes: They put excessive pressure on the front of the foot and trigger corns. Improper walking patterns: Gait disorders such as flat feet or inward stepping cause excessive pressure on certain points. Walking barefoot: Especially walking barefoot on hard and rough surfaces can cause the skin to harden.”
What are the most common methods in corn treatment?
Emphasizing that one should avoid unconscious interventions at home when corns become painful, Instructor Meldağ Turhan stated that seeking support from a podologist (foot health specialist) is the most appropriate approach at this stage.
She noted that professional treatment methods are both safe and effective and explained the process as follows: “If the corn has progressed or causes pain, consulting a podologist or dermatologist will be the best solution. Podologists carefully clean the corn with sterile instruments (debridement). If the corn is caused by a gait disorder, it can be corrected with special orthopedic insoles, and special foot care techniques such as medical pedicure may be applied.”
Choose shoes that fit well, are soft, and breathable
Emphasizing that what matters more than treating corns is preventing their formation, Instructor Meldağ Turhan stated that this issue can largely be avoided through simple habits integrated into daily life. To protect yourself from corns, Instructor Meldağ Turhan gave the following recommendations: “Choose shoes that fit your feet well, are soft, and breathable. If possible, take short breaks during the day to give your feet a chance to rest. Apply moisturizing cream to your feet daily to prevent the skin from drying and hardening. Wearing cotton socks instead of synthetic materials also allows the feet to breathe.”
Corns should not be neglected
Pointing out that corns are a common skin problem that can become painful if neglected, Instructor Meldağ Turhan concluded her words as follows: “However, with the right choice of shoes, regular foot care, and professional support, they can both be prevented and treated effectively. By paying attention to your foot health, you can improve your quality of daily life. Remember, your feet are one of the most important support points that carry your entire body.”
Üsküdar News Agency (ÜNA)