Soft Corns Are Very Painful

Soft corns are the buildup of skin between the toes. It’s interesting how they got their name because often this type of skin is hard. In any case, it can be quite painful.

The most common place for a soft corn in the inside of the little toe. Not only is it the most common, it’s also the most painful. Oftentimes, a patient will complain of severe pain in their little toe and not know why. One would not necessarily know to look between the toes.

Soft corns can also happen between other toes. The simple reason as to why it occurs in the first place is excessive friction. Two toes have to be rubbing together for a soft corn to develop. Sometimes, the reason is obvious as in toe deformities such as hammertoes and bunions and sometimes the toes are perfectly straight.

When a patient presents with pain in the toes we always take x-rays. We’re looking for bone spurs, arthritis, bone tumors, fractures, and bone infections. Knowing the cause of the problem allows us to determine a long-term solution rather than just treating the symptoms.

Diabetics Beware…

A soft corn on the toe of someone with diabetes can lead to a very serious problem. Immediate attention by a specialist is essential. A soft corn can lead to an open wound, and infection and ultimately an amputation.

Since many people with diabetes have numbness in their toes, inspecting between them on a daily basis is recommended. Anything that looks suspicious should be addressed immediately by a podiatrist. Attempting to self-treat this kind of condition can lead to unfortunate consequences.

The worst thing for anyone to do who feels something between the toes is treat it with an over-the-counter medicated product. These are not effective, and we have seen them make the situation much worse.

If you are experiencing pain in your toes and don’t know why or you know a soft corn is present we recommend a professional evaluation. You don’t have to let a simple condition lead to something major.