Corns are one of the most common conditions occurring on the foot, and are the cause of much pain and suffering.

There are two basic types of corn:

• One is called Heloma Dura, (which means a hard corn) and is usually found on the top, bottom or tips of the toes.
• The other type is known as Heloma Molle (which is a soft corn) and is usually found between the toes.

Corns are generally caused by the enlargement of bones in the toes or by tight-fitting shoes.

The underlying bone rubbing against the shoe, or other toe, creates a pressure point. The body then adapts to this pressure point by thickening the skin to act as a buffer in the affected area.  As the skin thickens with more dead skin cells, the area gradually becomes more painful.

The most common treatment requires "debriding" (or trimming down) of the callused or corn tissue.

Relief is generally instant.

In some cases, surgery is required to remove the underlying bone spur causing the problem.  In others, simply wearing wider fitting footwear brings relief.