4 Things Diabetics Need To Know About Corns

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Corns are thick layers of skin that develop in response to friction or pressure. They may develop on your feet if your shoes don't fit properly. For many people, corns are just a nuisance, but for diabetics, they can be dangerous. Here are four things diabetics need to know about corns.

What are the symptoms of corns?

If you have a corn, you'll notice a hard, raised bump on your foot, and the skin around the bump may be inflamed. Corns can also look like a thick or rough area of skin. The skin in the area may be dry or it may have a waxy appearance. Unlike calluses, corns can be painful when you press on them or when you walk or stand.

Why do diabetics need to worry about corns?

Diabetes can lead to complications in your feet that make corns more serious than they would otherwise be. Diabetes can lead to neuropathy; this is nerve damage in your feet that makes it harder for you to feel pain or other sensations. If you have neuropathy, your shoes could rub against your feet all day and lead to the formation of a corn, and you wouldn't even realize it.

If you don't notice the corn, it can eventually turn into an open sore called an ulcer. Ulcers can lead to serious complications like foot infections and even amputations. Fortunately, all of this can be avoided by seeing your podiatrist for treatment as soon as you notice a corn on your foot. 

How do podiatrists treat corns?

Your podiatrist can remove your corn by cutting it away with a scalpel. Removing the corn takes pressure off the tissue beneath the corn and allows it to heal. If you don't want to get this treatment, or you aren't a good candidate for it, you can use creams to treat your corn. Your podiatrist can recommend a cream that will rehydrate your skin and allow your corn to heal. Protective corn plasters are also available; these plasters protect your corn from further friction and pressure and give it a chance to heal.

How can you prevent corns?

You can prevent corns by choosing well-fitting shoes that don't rub against your skin or apply pressure to any part of your foot. If you aren't sure what type of shoes are best for you, ask a podiatrist at a place like Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle for recommendations.

Corns can be a big problem for diabetics, so if you notice one on your foot, see your podiatrist right away. Your podiatrist can treat your corn before it can turn into anything more serious.

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