What Causes Corns on Feet? (Top 5 Causes Explained)

Lamar| The Foot Aftercare Institute
Apr 6
5 min read

Corns are a common foot ailment that many people experience at some point in their lives.

These small, hardened areas of skin can cause discomfort and irritation, making it important to understand their causes.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the causes of corns, how to identify them, and, importantly, effective ways to prevent them from recurring.

What Is a Corn?

A corn is defined as a small, thickened area of skin with a hardened centre, often referred to as a core. They usually develop on:

The tops of toes

Between toes

The sides of the toes

The ball of the foot

Corns are different from calluses, which are larger and less concentrated.

Understanding the nature of corns is key to preventing them and managing discomfort.

For more information on the differences between corns and calluses, check out the article on Foot Corn Types Explained.

Hard corn heloma durum on the outer foot caused by pressure and friction — A hard corn (heloma durum) typically forms on pressure points like the outer foot due to repeated friction

The Main Causes of Corns on Feet

1. Tight or Ill-Fitting Shoes

One of the most prevalent causes of corns is wearing shoes that do not fit properly.

Shoes that squeeze the toes create friction, which can lead to the formation of corns.

Common footwear culprits include:

Narrow toe boxes: These shoes push the toes together, increasing friction.

High heels: Elevated shoes can place extra pressure on the balls of the feet.

Stiff materials: Shoes made of unyielding materials can rub against the skin.

Loose shoes: Shoes that do not fit snugly can cause the foot to slide and rub against the material.

When the skin is subjected to repeated friction, it thickens, resulting in a corn.

ill-fitting shoes causing corns, tight shoes, and high heels pressure points on the foot — Tight shoes and high heels increase pressure on specific areas of the foot, leading to corn formation

2. Toe Deformities

Certain structural changes in the toes can create localised pressure points that contribute to the development of corns. Common toe deformities include:

Hammer toes: A condition where the toe bends at the middle joint, causing abnormal pressure.

Claw toes: Characterised by an upward bend in the toe joints, leading to friction against shoes.

Bunions: Bony bumps that form at the big toe joint, often causing the toe to angle towards the others.

Overlapping toes: When one toe rests on top of another, leading to excessive rubbing.

These deformities significantly increase the likelihood of corns forming due to abnormal friction against footwear.

Toe deformities causing corns, hammer toe, and pressure friction foot condition — Toe deformities such as hammer toes or overlapping toes create pressure points that can lead to corms

3. Abnormal Walking Pattern

Your walking biomechanics can also influence the formation of corns.

An abnormal gait may place excess weight on specific areas of the foot, creating small pressure points.

Factors contributing to an abnormal walk include:

Flat feet: This can cause uneven weight distribution.

High arches: Create pressure on specific areas of the foot.

Previous injury: Past injuries may alter how you walk.

Poor footwear support: Shoes without proper support can exacerbate these problems.

When certain areas of the foot are subjected to persistent pressure, corns tend to form.

4. Lack of Cushioning or Insoles

Walking or standing on hard surfaces for extended periods can lead to mechanical stress on the feet.

Thin soles and inadequate cushioning can increase discomfort, prompting the skin to thicken in response, forming corns.

Using orthotic or cushioned insoles can help redistribute pressure and reduce friction, significantly improving foot comfort.

Cushioned insoles reduce pressure on the foot, preventing corns and friction — .Cushioned insoles help redistribute pressure and reduce friction, lowering the risk of corns

5. Untreated Hard Skin

If thickened skin is not managed properly, pressure can build beneath the surface, leading to the formation of corns.

Corns may also develop near areas of scar tissue or altered skin texture.

Regular maintenance of any thickened skin is vital in preventing corns from forming—be sure to consult Callus Over Scar: Why It Happens & How to Fix It Safely for related insights.

Differences between corns and callus foot comparison hard core vs thickened skin — Corns are small with a central core, while calluses are broader and more diffuse areas of thickened skin

Types of Corns

Differentiating between the types of corn can aid in determining the appropriate treatment:

Hard Corns

Most common type

Small, dense centre

Usually found on the tops of toes

Soft Corns

Typically found between the toes

Appear white and rubbery

Caused by moisture and friction

Seed Corns

Tiny and shallow

Often located on the sole

May occur in clusters

For a more in-depth breakdown of corn types, see Foot Corn Types Explained.

When Corns Become a Problem

It is essential to seek assessment for corns in specific situations, especially if they:

Cause persistent pain

Bleed or crack

Show signs of redness or swelling

Recur frequently

Occur in individuals with diabetes

If you notice signs of infection, be sure to read about Infected Foot Callus: Symptoms, Treatment & When to See a Podiatrist. Individuals with diabetes should also stay informed about Diabetic Foot: Warning Signs & Prevention.

Applying foot cream for corn treatment and prevention in the skin care routine for the feet — Proper foot care, including moisturising and pressure relief, can help prevent and manage corns

How to Prevent Corns on Feet

Preventing corns revolves around reducing friction and pressure on the feet. Here are some key steps to protect your feet:

Choose wide-toe-box shoes: They provide ample space for your toes and reduce friction.

Avoid prolonged high heel use: This minimises pressure on the forefoot.

Use cushioning insoles: These can help absorb shock and reduce friction.

Moisturise regularly: Keeping the skin supple can help prevent hardening.

Gently file thickened skin: Regular maintenance can help; however, avoid cutting it yourself.

For daily maintenance tips, check out Healthy Feet: What Do Healthy Feet Look Like? for guidance.

When to See a Podiatrist

Professional care is strongly recommended in several situations:

If corns are painful

If you experience circulation issues

In cases where corns keep returning

If you are unsure whether it’s a corn or another issue

For further insights, refer to When to See a Podiatrist for Foot Problems for detailed guidance.

Struggling with recurring Corns?

Learn how to properly manage hard skin and prevent buildup in our step-by-step guide.

How to Use Urea Cream Properly

How to Properly Use Urea Cream for Hard Skin

illustration of someone reading the "foot aftercare guide bundle" from The Foot Aftercare Institute — Further reading from the Foot Aftercare Institute

Final Thoughts

Understanding what causes corns on feet and how to manage them is crucial for maintaining foot health.

Implementing preventative measures can significantly reduce your risk of developing corns and enhance your overall foot comfort.

If corns persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to consult a podiatrist for professional advice and treatment options. Your feet deserve to be pain-free and healthy!