You do not need a referral to become a patient at our foot clinic. Schedule an appointment by using the Appointment Request form below or contact the clinic at
416-769-FEET(3338)
info@feetfirstclinic.com
A corn (also known as a “heloma”) is a small circular area of thickened, hardened skin, usually found on the non-weight bearing, bonier parts of the foot where the skin is thinner, like the toes. They are formed as part of the skin’s natural defence against excessive rubbing and friction; the thickening of the skin forms a protective cushion to prevent pain and blisters. Corns can be hard or soft. They are very similar to calluses and are formed by the same processes and causes.
Corns are normal and usually do not cause problems. However, when they get too big, they may become painful and make walking difficult.
Corns are most frequently caused by shoes that don’t fit properly: Ill-fitting shoes put excessive pressure and force on certain parts of the foot, particularly on bony prominences.
A corn is smaller than a callus, more circular shaped and has concentrated thickening in its center (calluses tend to be larger, are irregular-shaped, and the hardened skin is distributed evenly throughout). Corns also form more often on non-weight bearing parts of the foot, whereas calluses usually occur on the weight-bearing underside of the foot.
A corn looks and feels like a small, circular area of hardened skin with a dense, thick center (called the “core’). This core is usually surrounded by inflamed skin. Corns usually develop on or in between the toes. There are three types of corn:
Corns may not be very painful when they first develop; however if they get larger, they can cause problems. Signs that a corn may require a foot specialist’s attention are:
Corns form as part of our skin’s natural defence mechanism to protect itself against blisters and pain. Repeated or prolonged friction causes the outer layer of skin to thicken. This provides extra cushioning for the skin so that it can withstand the friction and pressure to which it is exposed.
Corns form on our toes and feet from the friction generated from the rubbing action between our feet and the inside of our shoes.
Problematic corns and complications can be caused or contributed by:
Corns sometimes go away on their own without medical intervention. However, if you have diabetes or any other condition that causes poor circulation in your feet, you should promptly consult a chiropodist to avoid complications. You can also see a foot specialist if your corn is causing you pain, irritation and discomfort, or affecting your ability to carry out daily activities.
A licensed chiropodist will safely remove your corns using chemical and/or mechanical therapies. Read about our callus and corn removal services for more information.
If you have recurrent corns, shoe inserts or custom orthotics may be indicated. These will address any biomechanical abnormalities affecting your gait that may be contributing to the formation of the corns on your feet.
Never try to cut or shave away your corn with a sharp object.
To schedule foot care treatment for your corns with our licensed Chiropodists (foot specialists), use our booking form or call 416-769-FEET(3338).
Our Toronto foot clinic is open Monday-Friday 9am-6pm, Saturdays 9am-4pm. You do not need a referral to become a patient at our Foot clinic.
Certain risk factors may increase your chances of developing corns:
To prevent or reduce your susceptibility to developing corns, you can:
To schedule an appointment with our licensed Chiropodists (foot specialists) for a medical pedicure, preventative foot care and maintenance, use our booking form or call 416-769-FEET(3338).
Our Toronto foot clinic is open Monday-Friday 9am-6pm, Saturdays 9am-4pm. You do not need a referral to become a patient at our Foot clinic.