Corns, Bunions & Cracks

Understanding nerve-related foot conditions and how specialized footwear helps

Common Foot Conditions

Corns – Small, thickened patches of skin that form due to friction or pressure, usually on the toes.
Calluses – Broader areas of hardened skin that develop on the soles or heels from repeated pressure.
Bunions – A bony bump at the base of the big toe, caused by joint misalignment.
Tailor’s Bunion – A similar bony bump that forms at the base of the little toe.
Cracked Heels – Dry, split skin around the rim of the heel, often due to thick, unmoisturized skin.
Hammer Toes – A bent toe joint that often develops alongside corns and pressure points.
Fungal Infections – Skin or nail infections that can worsen cracks and thickened skin.
Ill-Fitting Footwear – Tight or poorly shaped shoes that are a leading cause of corns, bunions, and cracked skin.

Corns

Small, cone-shaped areas of hard skin that press into deeper tissue and can be painful to walk on.

Bunions

A progressive shift of the big toe joint that creates a painful, enlarging bump on the side of the foot.

Cracked Heels

Dry skin around the heel that thickens and splits, sometimes deep enough to bleed or become infected.

Calluses

Widespread hardened skin that builds up wherever the foot repeatedly rubs or bears extra pressure.

Key Symptoms — When to Seek Help?

A hard, raised bump of skin on the toes or ball of the foot.
Pain or tenderness when wearing shoes or walking.
A visible bony bump at the base of the big toe or little toe.
Redness, swelling, or stiffness around the big toe joint.
Dry, thickened skin around the heel rim.
Deep cracks or fissures in the heel, sometimes with bleeding.
Difficulty finding shoes that fit comfortably.
A crack or corn that becomes red, warm, or starts oozing (seek prompt care, especially with diabetes).

⚠️ Warning: In people with diabetes or poor circulation, even minor corns or cracks can lead to serious infection. Consult a specialist if a wound does not improve within a few days.