A corn (clavus) is a punctual callus with a central core that grows inward. It forms at points of constant pressure, typically over joints, on the tops of toes, the sole or between the toes, and hurts because the core presses on nerve endings.
- Tight or hard shoes, high heels
- Toe deformities such as hammer toes or bunions
- Bony prominences, dry skin
Remove the pressure, that is half the treatment: roomy footwear, protective rings, toe padding. Be careful with acid corn plasters: they cannot tell callus from healthy skin, and with diabetes or circulatory disorders they are off limits.
If it hurts, keeps returning or you are not sure it is a corn at all: plantar warts look confusingly similar but are treated differently. In the practice the core is removed precisely and usually with little pain, and the cause of the pressure is discussed with you.
The Latin name clavus means "nail", fittingly: the keratin core acts like a small nail pressed into the skin at every step.
Corn or wart: how do I tell the difference?
Will the corn come back after removal?
Concerns about your feet, skin or nails?
We take a precise look: discreet, by appointment, between Kreuzplatz and Kunsthaus. We usually reply within one working day.