A seed corn is a particular type of foot corn that occurs on the soles of the feet. In comparison to hard and soft corns, a seed corn on foot is much smaller in size. Commonly mistaken for plantar warts, seed corns tend to appear as a raised lump surrounded by dry flaky skin. They are usually associated with dryness, although they may also arise from excess pressure or friction, as is the case in other types of corns on feet. While they are often asymptomatic, seed corns can cause discomfort or pain when pressure is applied, especially during weight-bearing activities like walking or running.
If you have really dry skin, and you notice stiff tiny bumps on your feet, you probably have seed corns. Illnesses such as diabetes can increase your susceptibility to it, because they reduce the moisture within your feet. Other contributory factors for seed corns include:
Shoes
Ill-fitting shoes are the main culprit in developing corns. When shoes are too loose or too tight, repeated rubbing may occur, prompting the skin to grow thicker. If this process continues, a corn will eventually form. Similarly, those who frequently wear high-heeled shoes often develop corns from the downward pressure when walking.
Socks
If you are wearing shoes with no socks, then you are exposing your feet to unnecessary friction. In the same way, socks that are too loose or too tight can cause corn formation.
Stress and Overuse
Going barefoot and doing physical activities that require repetitive movements may cause foot corns because of increased pressure and overuse. Walking or running long distances and standing on hard surfaces for extended periods of time contribute badly to its formation. Sometimes seed corns are also caused by improper walking posture. When you walk too heavily on the inner or outer edge of your foot, weight and pressure are unevenly distributed to your foot.
Foot Deformities
People with structural foot deformities and abnormal biomechanics often suffer from foot corns. These include hammertoes, bone spurs, and bunions. Surgery may be considered if you have a structural deformity that results in the repeated development of corns.
Most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops. Wearing shoes that are comfortable and of the right size is the first step in alleviating corns. Additionally, you can try home treatments such as soaking your feet in warm water and filing them down with a foot file. Over-the-counter medications containing salicylic acid may also be recommended. To treat seed corns effectively, you must first address the primary cause: dryness of the feet. Urea-containing moisturizers are highly recommended since urea softens and mildly removes dry skin. It is best to apply moisturizing cream twice a day and avoid using it in between your toes, as this can lead to athlete’s foot.
Seed corns can be easily managed with at-home care. However, in situations where they are persistent and are causing disturbing pain, it might be the best time to consult a foot and ankle surgeon. The foot doctor at DeNiel Foot & Ankle Center will recommend the option most appropriate for your seed corn removal.
