Corns on the feet develop when repeated pressure or friction causes the skin to become thick and hardened. These small, rounded areas often form on the top or sides of the toes, where shoes may rub against the skin. Corns develop as the body attempts to protect sensitive areas from continued irritation. Unlike calluses, which generally cover larger areas of the feet, corns are usually smaller and may have a firm center. This concentrated buildup of skin sometimes creates discomfort when pressure is applied. Poorly fitting shoes are a frequent cause of corns, particularly when footwear squeezes the toes or allows excessive movement. Foot conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, and arthritis may also increase pressure on certain areas. Understanding how corns develop helps explain why they may become painful during walking or standing.

Different types of foot corns have distinct appearances and locations. Hard corns are the most common and typically develop on the tops of toes, where the skin becomes firm and dry. Soft corns usually appear between the toes and have a softer texture because of moisture in that area. Seed corns are much smaller and generally develop on the soles of the feet. Although these growths differ in appearance, they all involve areas of thickened skin. Symptoms may include tenderness, localized pain, and inflammation around the affected area. Some individuals notice discomfort only when wearing certain shoes, while others experience persistent irritation during daily activities. Corns may gradually become thicker when repeated friction continues. The location of a corn often provides clues about which part of the foot is experiencing excessive pressure. Recognizing these changes is important when determining appropriate foot care.

Podiatric care focuses on identifying the source of pressure and addressing painful areas of thickened skin. A podiatrist examines the affected foot to determine the type of corn and evaluate any contributing foot abnormalities. The examination may also include assessing toe alignment and areas where footwear creates friction. When appropriate, a podiatrist removes hardened skin using specialized instruments to reduce discomfort. Treatment may also involve recommendations for properly fitted footwear or protective padding to relieve pressure. Addressing underlying foot structure problems may help reduce repeated irritation and the likelihood of corns returning. Individuals with diabetes should receive careful evaluation because foot complications may develop more easily. If painful corns are interfering with walking or daily comfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of North Penn Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

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

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctors 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 Lansdale, and King of Prussia, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hammertoe occurs when an imbalance in the muscles and tendons causes a toe to develop an abnormal bend. The middle joint is commonly affected, giving the toe its characteristic appearance. Hammertoe can be flexible in its early stages or rigid as the deformity progresses. A flexible toe can still move into a straighter position. A rigid toe remains fixed and may become increasingly uncomfortable.

Hammertoe symptoms often become more noticeable when walking or wearing shoes. Pain may develop in the affected toe or at the toe joint where it meets the foot. The bent joint may rub against footwear and develop a corn or callus. Some people experience swelling, redness, or tenderness after spending time on their feet. Wearing shoes that do not fit properly can make these symptoms worse. High heels may also crowd the toes and increase pressure.

Your natural foot structure can also affect your risk. People with high arches may place greater pressure on the front of the foot. Flat feet can alter normal walking mechanics and contribute to uneven pressure. Other risk factors include family history, aging, and footwear that squeezes the toes. Recognizing these factors early may help reduce ongoing irritation and protect comfortable movement.

A podiatrist can evaluate the toe and determine whether the deformity is flexible or rigid. The examination may include checking your walking pattern and joint movement. Treatment can involve changing footwear, using protective padding, or prescribing custom orthotics. Severe or rigid deformities may require surgery when conservative care does not provide adequate relief. If you have a painful toe or one that is bent, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief, treatment, and management solutions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from North Penn Podiatry. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lansdale, and King of Prussia, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet are low or flattened, causing much or all of the sole to contact the ground while standing. Some people naturally have low arches, while others develop changes in their arches later in life. Factors that can contribute to flat feet include changes in the muscles or tissues that support the arch. An injury can also affect the structure of the foot. Some patients with flat feet have no discomfort, while others experience pain that affects daily activities. Symptoms can include aching in the arches, heel pain, and tired feet after standing. Discomfort can also develop around the ankles. Flat feet can change how weight and pressure move through the feet while standing or walking.

A podiatrist can evaluate flat feet by examining the arches and overall structure of the feet. An examination can include checking foot flexibility, ankle movement, and areas of tenderness. The podiatrist can also observe how the patient stands and walks to identify changes in foot movement. X-rays can provide additional information about the bones and joints when a closer evaluation is appropriate. Treatment can focus on supporting the arches and improving how pressure is distributed across the feet. Custom orthotics can provide support based on the patient's specific foot structure. A podiatrist can also recommend properly fitted shoes that provide suitable arch support and cushioning. Targeted treatment can address tightness or weakness that affects foot movement.

Flat feet can influence more than the appearance of the arches. Changes in foot movement can place additional stress on the ankles, lower legs, or knees. Patients can also change the way they walk when discomfort develops. A podiatrist can determine how flat feet affect movement and create a treatment plan based on the patient's symptoms. Care can focus on reducing painful pressure, improving support, and promoting comfortable movement. Treatment can be adjusted according to activity level and changes in symptoms. Professional evaluation can also help identify related foot problems that contribute to discomfort. If you have symptoms of flat feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from North Penn Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lansdale, and King of Prussia, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken ankle can affect the bones that connect the lower leg to the foot. The three main bones that make up the ankle are the tibia, or shin bone, the fibula, or smaller leg bone, and the talus, which helps connect the leg to the foot. A fracture can happen after a twisting injury, fall, or sudden impact. Pain is usually strong, and swelling and bruising can develop surrounding the ankle. Some patients cannot put weight on the injured foot or move the ankle normally. An ankle that looks out of place needs prompt medical attention. Early evaluation is important because a severe fracture can affect ankle stability and movement.

A podiatrist can examine the ankle and review imaging, such as  X-rays, to understand the location and severity of the break. The type of fracture helps determine the appropriate treatment. A stable fracture can sometimes heal with a protective boot or cast. A more serious or unstable fracture may require surgery to bring the bones back into proper position and help the ankle heal correctly. A podiatrist can also monitor the injury as it heals and check for problems with movement, pain, or swelling. Treatment plans are based on the specific fracture and the condition of the ankle.

Recovery from a broken ankle can take time, especially when more than one bone is injured. Some patients experience stiffness, soreness, or pain after the fracture has healed. An ankle fracture can also affect how the joint moves and can increase the chance of arthritis, which is a condition that causes joint pain and stiffness. A podiatrist can assess healing, monitor changes in movement, and help guide the return to normal activities. Follow-up care can also help identify concerns that could affect the ankle’s function. If you have broken your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from North Penn Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lansdale, and King of Prussia, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.