5 tips to prevent corns from forming on your feet

THE discomfort caused by corns impacts everyday activities as even the simple act of walking can be painful.

What are corns? A corn is generally a small patch of thickened, dead skin which have a central core. They tend to occur at pressure points on the bottom of the feet and sides of the toes where the foot comes in contact with a shoe and friction is caused. 

For chronic corn sufferers, it might seem like the cycle will never be broken, but there are some easy ways to prevent and treat corns.

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Lynsey Hammond, marketing director for Kroko, manufacturers of South African footcare products, says that while treatment is effective, corns can be prevented by following these simple tricks that will help in the long run.  

Wear the right shoes

Wearing ill-fitting shoes can cause corns to develop on the toes, particularly if the shoes you are wearing have a narrow toe box or are pointed.  If there is any pinching or rubbing while walking, then the shoes should be ditched.

Get the size right

It’s not just about trying on shoes – you really need to measure your feet before trying on new shoes.  There should be a half-inch between the longest toe and the front of the shoe. It’s also best to shop at the end of the day when feet are more swollen. When buying running shoes, buy a size bigger than your normal size.

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Replace shoes regularly

When shoes are worn regularly, the soles will wear down which means reduced protection from the shock of walking on hard surfaces. Worn linings on shoes can also chafe the skin, causing corns, calluses or blisters, so replace shoes when needed.  

Wear socks

Socks provide a protective layer between your feet and your shoes, and good quality socks will prevent friction that leads to corns. If you’re wearing shoes that don’t suit socks, consider wearing no-show or ‘secret’ socks as this will help reduce friction. If you’re an athlete, then ensure you invest in quality socks that will provide the necessary cushioning.

Check your posture

People who walk with improper posture, walking too heavily on the inner or outer edge of the foot, can experience corns. Check your posture, and if necessary, see a chiropractor or podiatrist to help align your body and gait.

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