Corns develop when repeated pressure or rubbing causes the skin to thicken in a small area. They usually appear on the tops or sides of toes, although they also form between toes. A hard corn has a firm center surrounded by thicker skin. A soft corn develops where moisture keeps the skin tender, especially between neighboring toes. Both types may cause sharp pain when shoes press against them. Some people notice a rough bump or a sensitive spot while walking. Tight shoes and changes in toe position increase friction. Corns differ from calluses, which usually cover wider areas of skin. Understanding the source of pressure helps a podiatrist choose suitable treatment and reduce repeated discomfort.

A podiatrist examines the affected area and checks whether the thickened skin is a corn or another problem. The examination includes reviewing shoe fit, toe alignment, and tender pressure points. Some corns develop near bent toes or prominent joints that rub against shoes. A podiatrist may carefully remove layers of thickened skin using professional instruments. This treatment reduces pressure on the sensitive area beneath the corn. Protective padding may also help separate rubbing surfaces. When foot structure contributes to recurring corns, custom orthotics may improve pressure distribution. The podiatrist checks for redness or broken skin that might signal complications. Patients with diabetes or poor circulation require special attention because even small skin injuries deserve careful evaluation.

Painful corns sometimes change the way patients walk or stand. Avoiding pressure on one toe may increase strain elsewhere in the foot. A podiatrist considers these changes when developing a treatment plan. Follow-up visits help determine whether the corn is returning and whether pressure relief is effective. The podiatrist may recommend adjustments to shoe fit or additional protective support based on the patient's foot shape. Repeated corns deserve evaluation because removing thickened skin alone does not address their underlying cause. Podiatric treatment focuses on comfort, healthy skin, and better movement throughout everyday activities and regular routines. If you have developed corns, it is suggested that you  schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief, treatment, and prevention techniques. 

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Complete Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC. our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bellefontaine, OH and Springfield, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cuboid syndrome is a source of pain along the outer middle portion of the foot. It is thought to involve a small disruption in the normal position or movement of the cuboid, a bone located on the outside of the midfoot. This change can irritate nearby ligaments, the joint capsule, and a tendon that passes beneath the cuboid. Cuboid syndrome may develop after an ankle sprain or from repeated stress on the foot. It has been reported in both athletic and non-athletic populations, although athletes may be affected more often. Because the symptoms can resemble other foot injuries, cuboid syndrome is sometimes overlooked or misdiagnosed.

Pain is usually felt directly over the cuboid and may spread toward the arch or along the outside of the foot. Some people experience pain while bearing weight, while others may notice discomfort even when the foot is resting. Swelling, redness, and tenderness may also occur. Pain can cause weakness during the push-off portion of walking, making normal movement uncomfortable. Diagnosing cuboid syndrome can be challenging because there is no single test that confirms it. X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans generally do not show the small joint changes associated with this condition. However, imaging may be useful for ruling out fractures or other foot problems.

A podiatrist can evaluate lateral foot pain by reviewing how the symptoms began and carefully examining the painful area. The evaluation may include checking foot and ankle movement and determining whether certain motions reproduce the symptoms. Treatment may involve professional manipulation of the cuboid to restore normal joint function. Therapeutic exercise, padding, or supportive taping may also be incorporated into a treatment plan. Because several other injuries can cause similar outer-foot pain, an accurate diagnosis is important before treatment begins. If persistent pain or tenderness develops along the outside of your midfoot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with one of our podiatrists from Complete Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC. our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bellefontaine, OH and Springfield, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis is one of the common causes of heel pain. It develops when the plantar fascia, a band of tissue along the foot, becomes irritated or damaged. This tissue connects the heel bone to the base of the toes and helps support the arch. It also acts like a shock absorber during walking and running. When the plantar fascia is repeatedly stressed, areas can develop inflammation and tissue changes. Pain is often strongest with the first steps after waking, or after sitting for a while.

Several factors can increase the risk of plantar fasciitis. Running, walking, or standing for long periods can place repeated stress on the plantar fascia. Wearing unsupportive shoes may also increase strain on the foot. Other risk factors include tight calf muscles, a high arch, and sudden increases in activity. Age can play a role as well, since the plantar fascia can become less flexible over time. Additionally, a change in activity level or training surface may also trigger symptoms.

The main symptom is usually a sharp or aching pain near the bottom of the heel. Discomfort may improve after moving around but return after prolonged activity or rest. A podiatrist will review your symptoms and examine your foot, ankle, and walking pattern. Imaging tests may be recommended when another condition needs to be ruled out. Treatment options include activity changes, wearing supportive footwear, and other measures based on your needs. More persistent cases may require additional treatment options.

Understanding plantar fasciitis can help you recognize symptoms before heel pain interferes with daily activities. A podiatrist can identify contributing factors and create a treatment plan that supports healing and comfortable movement. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Complete Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bellefontaine, OH and Springfield, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Running can improve heart health, endurance, and confidence, but running when overweight places greater force on the feet and ankles with each step. This does not mean that an overweight person should not run. A careful start can reduce strain and make this exercise more comfortable. Begin with short sessions that alternate brisk walking and easy running. Choose a flat, predictable surface rather than steep hills or uneven trails. Increase distance or speed gradually, but avoid raising both during the same week. Pain that changes your stride, causes swelling, or remains after a run deserves attention.

Proper running shoes are important because they help absorb impact and keep the feet stable. Shoes should fit the length and width of the foot without squeezing the toes or allowing the heel to slide. Replace shoes when the cushioning or tread becomes worn. Moisture-wicking socks can help limit blisters. A pre-run warmup prepares the muscles and joints for activity. Keep the pace slow enough to speak in short sentences, and schedule recovery days between runs. Stop running if sharp pain, dizziness, or unusual shortness of breath develops.

A podiatrist can examine the feet, ankles, and walking pattern before a new running program begins. The doctor can identify flat feet, limited joint movement, or areas under excess pressure. This evaluation can reveal problems that raise the chance of heel pain, tendon injuries, or stress fractures. A podiatrist can also recommend running shoes based on foot shape and gait. Custom orthotics can improve alignment and distribute pressure more evenly when appropriate. For an injury, the podiatrist can order imaging, explain activity limits, and create a plan for returning to running. Regular follow-up visits allow the doctor to check progress and adjust recommendations as mileage increases. If you are overweight and have developed foot pain while running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and guidance tips.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Complete Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC. our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bellefontaine, OH and Springfield, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.