Corns on the Feet: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
No, we’re not talking about the corn you eat — foot corns are small, round, often painful spots of thickened skin that develop due to pressure or friction.
At Melbourne Podiatry Clinic, we see many patients struggling with corns. They’re uncomfortable, sometimes look unsightly, and can make walking feel like you’re “stepping on a stone.” The good news? Corns are easily treated by a podiatrist.
What Are Corns?
Corns occur when the outer layer of the skin (stratum corneum) thickens in response to irregular or excessive pressure. Clinically, they are known as helomas and can present in two main forms:
Hard Corns (Heloma Durum)
Well-circumscribed, round, with a darker central core (often yellowish)
Commonly develop on weight-bearing areas of the foot
Can feel like a sharp stone under the skin
Often very painful when walking
Soft Corns (Heloma Molle)
Less common, usually found between the toes
Appear white and “macerated” due to trapped moisture
Can become infected if untreated, requiring careful podiatry management
What Causes Corns?
Corns form when certain areas of the foot experience abnormal pressure or friction, often from:
Tight or poorly fitting shoes (e.g., high heels)
Prominent foot structures such as bunions or bony joints
Toes pressing against each other
Barefoot walking on hard surfaces for extended periods
Certain activities that load the foot (e.g., rock climbing)
Preventing and Managing Corns at Home
You can reduce your risk of corns with simple steps:
Choose properly fitted shoes (we recommend Bared, Active Feet, State of Solace, The Running Company, The Athlete’s Foot)
Opt for cushioned footwear or supportive sandals (e.g., Archies or Birkenstocks) if you’re on your feet for long periods
Gently file thickened skin with an emery board and apply moisturiser regularly
Avoid medicated corn pads – these acid-based products can cause scarring and make the problem worse
How a Podiatrist Can Help
If you already have painful corns, don’t put up with the discomfort. At Melbourne Podiatry Clinic, our podiatrists can:
Quickly and painlessly remove corns in-clinic
Provide personalised footwear and orthotic advice
Help prevent recurrence with long-term management strategies
Don’t Put Up With Corn Pain
Corns won’t go away on their own — but professional treatment is fast, safe and effective. If you’re dealing with painful corns, book an appointment today and let our expert podiatrists get you back on your feet.
