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Why Corns Develop and How They Are Treated

Corns are small, thickened areas of skin that develop when repeated pressure or friction affects the same spot on the foot. Unlike a callus, which usually covers a larger area, a corn is smaller and has a hard center that can press into deeper tissue. This pressure can make standing, wearing shoes, and walking uncomfortable. Corns frequently develop on the tops or sides of the toes, but they can also form on the bottom of the foot. Pain can become more noticeable when shoes press against the affected area. A podiatrist can determine whether the thickened skin is truly a corn or another condition that requires different treatment.

Repeated rubbing and pressure are the main causes of corns. Wearing shoes that do not fit properly can increase friction between the foot and the shoe. Shoes that lack proper support can place extra pressure on certain parts of the foot while walking. Foot problems like bunions or hammertoes can also change the way weight is distributed across the foot, increasing the chance that corns will develop. A podiatrist performs a careful examination to identify the source of the pressure causing the corn. X-rays are sometimes recommended when a structural foot problem is suspected. Identifying the underlying cause helps guide treatment and reduces repeated irritation.

Treatment focuses on relieving pressure and addressing the condition that caused the corn to develop. A podiatrist can safely remove the thickened skin without damaging the healthy tissue beneath it. Custom orthotics can improve foot alignment and reduce pressure on painful areas. Padding can also help protect the skin from continued friction. When a bunion, hammertoe, or another structural problem causes repeated corns, surgery can correct the deformity and reduce future pressure. Early treatment can improve comfort and make daily activities easier while helping protect the skin from further damage. If you have symptoms of corns, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Bruce Smit, DPM of Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

  • Well-fitting socks
  • Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
  • Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Corns and Calluses

Foot Pain and the Risk of Falling in Seniors

Falls become a greater concern as people grow older, and the feet play a much larger role than many realize. Foot pain, poor balance, and changes in foot shape can make it harder to stay steady while walking. Conditions like bunions, hammertoes, and arthritis can affect the way a person walks and increase the chance of losing balance. Reduced feeling in the feet, which can develop with aging or certain medical conditions, also makes it more difficult to sense the ground. Shoes that lack proper support create another risk because they reduce stability. Paying attention to foot health is an important part of lowering the risk of falls and protecting overall mobility.

A podiatrist can identify foot problems that affect balance before they lead to a serious injury. A foot examination checks for pain, loss of feeling, and circulation concerns that could interfere with safe movement. Treatment includes reducing painful pressure, improving foot function, and recommending custom orthotics when they are appropriate. A podiatrist can also address conditions like ingrown toenails, thick toenails, or painful calluses that may change the way people walk. Early care helps improve comfort and supports a more stable walking pattern. Better foot function can also make daily activities feel safer and more comfortable.

Falls can cause broken bones, ankle injuries, and serious foot damage that limits independence. Research has shown that foot pain is linked to slower walking and poorer balance. This makes it an important risk factor that should not be overlooked. Addressing foot problems before they become severe supports safer movement and greater confidence while walking. Taking care of your feet could improve your chances of staying on them. Regular visits with a podiatrist help detect changes that might otherwise go unnoticed. If you have injured your foot or ankle from falling, or feel you may be at risk, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment and prevention tips. 

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Bruce Smit, DPM from Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

  • Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
  • Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
  • Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
  • Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
  • Utilizing a walker or cane
  • Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
  • Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Falls Prevention

Working on Your Feet and Protecting Foot Health

Many jobs require standing or walking for long hours each day. Healthcare workers, retail employees, and restaurant staff often spend most of their shift on their feet. This repeated stress can place extra pressure on the muscles, joints, and soft tissues of the feet. As a result, foot pain may develop gradually and begin to interfere with work and everyday activities. Common symptoms include aching, swelling, and heel pain that becomes worse after long periods of standing. Ignoring these warning signs may allow the problem to worsen and make daily movement more difficult. Early evaluation is important because foot pain is often easier to manage before it becomes a long-term problem.

 

A podiatrist can determine the cause of your discomfort with a thorough examination of your feet and the way you walk. Long hours on your feet may contribute to plantar fasciitis, tendon irritation, or joint pain. Once the cause is identified, a personalized treatment plan can be developed to improve comfort and reduce stress on the feet. Treatment may include custom orthotics, supportive footwear recommendations, or certain medical therapies based on your specific needs. Professional care also helps monitor your progress and reduce the risk of ongoing foot problems that could affect your ability to work.

 

Professional foot pain treatment, podiatry care, and custom orthotics can help support healthy movement and improve comfort during long workdays. Addressing symptoms early may also help prevent more serious foot conditions from developing. A podiatrist focuses on treating the underlying cause of pain so you can stay active with greater confidence. If standing for long hours is causing foot pain or swelling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Bruce Smit, DPM from Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about How to Handle a Long Work Day on Your Feet
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