Corns
Corns
Corns (pronunciation: /kɔːrnz/) are thickened areas of skin that can develop on the feet due to repeated pressure or friction. They are a common foot condition and can cause discomfort or pain when walking.
Etymology
The term "corn" comes from the Old English corn, which originally meant "small hard particle, grain, seed". In the context of foot health, it has been used to describe these hardened areas of skin since at least the 15th century.
Causes
Corns are caused by pressure and friction on the skin of the foot. This can occur due to wearing ill-fitting shoes, not wearing socks, or having an abnormal walking style. The skin responds to this pressure by thickening and hardening, forming a corn.
Types
There are two main types of corns: hard corns and soft corns. Hard corns (heloma durum) are the most common and appear as small, concentrated areas of hard skin. Soft corns (heloma molle) are whitish or gray in color, with a rubbery texture, and usually appear between the toes where the skin is moist.
Treatment
Treatment for corns can include over-the-counter remedies, such as corn plasters or pads, as well as professional treatment from a podiatrist or chiropodist. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove the corn.
Prevention
Prevention of corns involves reducing or eliminating the sources of pressure and friction. This can be achieved by wearing well-fitting shoes, using protective pads or insoles, and maintaining good foot hygiene.
Related Terms
- Callus: A larger area of thickened skin, usually found on the hands or feet.
- Bunion: A bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe.
- Hammer toe: A deformity that causes a toe to bend or curl downward instead of pointing forward.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Corns
- Wikipedia's article - Corns
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