12/03/2022
Corns
Corns are caused by abnormal pressure and friction known as mechanical stress. This mechanical stress, which the skin and underlying tissues are subjected to, is classified as Compressional, Tensile, Shearing and Torsional.
Compressional Stress – This is where the tissues of the foot are compressed between the body weight and the resistance of the ground when walking
Tensile Stress – This is a stretching of the tissues of the feet on weight bearing. Elasticity of the tissues of the feet is limited, and also diminishes with age
Shearing Stress – This stress occurs when the tissues of the feet are forced laterally (side to side), over the insole of the shoe
Torsional stress – This stress occurs when shearing forces combine with twisting forces as the feet pivot when walking
They are a result of undue pressure from what ever cause. The skin builds a protective hard layer wherever pressure is exerted on the feet. This layer will become increasingly thickened and hard.
The centre of this hardened area becomes molded into a nucleus. The nuclei of corns vary in shape and size according to their location and stress.
Corns can be caused by either of the following:
a) A Biomechanical malfunction of the working unit of the foot.
A major cause of corns is an abnormally working foot. When the bones of the foot are misaligned and excessive pressure is exerted over a particular area, it can result in severe callous and corn formation. This is frequently seen on high, and low, arched feet.
b) Shoe pressure
Shoes play a direct role on the formation of corns.
If you have a painful corn do get in touch with Footmedics
