Education Corner

Corns from Wearing High Heels — Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

Many women develop corns from frequently wearing high heels, which can cause severe pain when walking if left untreated. So what exactly is a corn? Is it contagious? How can it be managed or prevented? This article invites a specialist to answer these common questions for you.

Is a lump on a joint a corn?
When the skin experiences prolonged friction or pressure, the outer layer thickens and forms calluses — commonly known as corns. Corns usually develop as a single lesion on areas exposed to pressure, such as the bottoms of the feet, between the toes, or on the outer sides of the little toes. When pressed, they can stimulate nerves and cause pain.

Corns are generally divided into two types: hard corns and soft corns.

Why do corns form?
Most corns develop from wearing shoes that are too tight or too loose, or from walking with poor posture. High heels in particular increase pressure on the toes, significantly raising the likelihood of developing corns.

How to tell the difference between a corn, a callus, and a wart?
Corns and calluses are both caused by repeated friction and are not contagious. Warts, however, are caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can spread.

How to effectively remove corns? 
If the corn is just beginning to form, try regular foot care first:

• Soak feet in warm water for about 15 minutes daily.

• Gently rub the area in circular motions using a pumice stone to smooth the surface.

• Apply moisturizer afterward.

If discomfort or pain occurs, consider one of the following four treatment methods:

1. Corn plasters or medicated solutions:
   These usually contain salicylic acid and are suitable for mild cases. Since salicylic acid is highly corrosive, it may irritate the surrounding skin, so use with caution and allow a few days between treatments. Most mild corns heal in about a week after proper use.
   Important: Do not attempt to dig out or cut the corn yourself. Corns extend into the dermis, and trimming them with nail clippers can cause bleeding, tissue damage, or bacterial infection, making the condition worse.

2. Cryotherapy:
   This treatment sprays liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy superficial tissue. It needs to be done gradually to control the depth of tissue damage and usually requires several sessions.

3. Laser therapy:
   A common and precise treatment method. Laser therapy removes the keratinized layer without harming nearby tissue, helping the wound heal faster and reducing the chance of recurrence.

4. Surgical removal:
   For severe or persistent cases, surgical excision may be considered to remove the corn completely.

Do corns always need treatment? When is it necessary?
Not always. Mild corns can usually be managed with regular foot care, corn plasters, or ointments. However, if walking causes pain or significant discomfort, medical treatment should be considered.

How to prevent corns? 
Protecting your feet in daily life is key to prevention:

• Wear properly fitted shoes. Avoid narrow-toed or non-breathable heels and leather shoes.

• Choose comfortable cotton socks to protect against friction.

• Use insoles to reduce pressure and rubbing.

• Soak and moisturize feet regularly to soften thickened skin.

• Maintain proper walking posture to avoid prolonged pressure on specific areas of the foot.