Seed Corn on Feet: Causes, Treatment and Tips

Seed corn on feet is a common foot condition that can cause discomfort and pain. It is characterized by the appearance of small, hard, and tender spots on the soles of the feet, which are often mistaken for corns or calluses. Developing corn on your feet can be caused by various factors such as repetitive activities, ill-fitting shoes, or foot conditions like orthotics, bunions or hammer toe.  There are several types of corn, including hard, soft, and Seed. Seed corns are tiny corns that can emerge on the soles of your feet, and they can sometimes be challenging to differentiate from other foot lesions, such as calluses and plantar warts.  In the following paragraphs, we will explore What is a Seed corn on foot causes, and its treatment options.

"I love feet. I love the way they look, the way they feel, the way they smell. I love everything about feet." - Anonymous

What is Seed corn on foot?

Seed corn on foot is a type of foot corn that is small and round and is associated with dry skin. Foot corns, including seed corns, are areas of thickened skin that develop due to pressure and friction. They are usually found on the toes or soles of the feet and can be painful to touch or pressure.  Seed corn is caused by poorly-fitted shoes that cause pressure or friction on the foot. Treatment options for seed corn include over-the-counter remedies, such as salicylic acid, or seeing a podiatrist for professional treatment. Also Read: Diabetic Foot: Everything you should know

What are the types of foot corn?

Various varieties of corn exist, including Hard corn, Soft corn, and Seed corn.

1. Hard corn:

Hard corn typically develops as small, tough, and compact patches of skin within a wider region of thickened skin, often on the top of toes where bones exert pressure on the skin.

2. Soft corn:

Soft corn is characterized by a softer, rubbery texture and whitish/gray appearance, usually between toes.

3. Seed corn:

Seed corn is tiny and commonly emerges on the soles of feet. Also Read: Athlete's Foot: Meaning, Causes and Symptoms

What are the Causes of Seed Corn on Foot?

Seed corns, also known as porokeratosis, are small, painful, and hard bumps that can develop on the bottom of the feet, most commonly on the heels and balls of the feet. The exact cause of seed corn has yet to be fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute to their development. Seed corn causes are given below:

1. Excessive pressure or friction on the feet:

Seed corn can develop due to repeated pressure or friction, such as from ill-fitting shoes, standing for long periods, or walking on hard surfaces.

2. Abnormal foot mechanics:

People with flat feet, high arches, or other foot abnormalities may be more prone to developing seed corn due to the way their feet distribute weight and pressure. Read Also: How to relieve foot pain from standing all day?

3. Sweaty feet:

Excessive sweating can contribute to the development of seed corn by softening the skin on the feet and making them more susceptible to pressure and friction.

4. Aging:

Seed corns are more common in older adults, as the skin on the feet naturally becomes thinner and less elastic with age.

5. Genetics:

Some people may be more genetically predisposed to developing seed corn than others.

6. Nutritional deficiencies:

Some nutritional deficiencies, such as a lack of vitamin A, may contribute to seed corn's development by affecting the skin's health. Read Also: 7 Signs You Need Corrective Foot Surgery

How is Seed corn treated?

Seed corn on feet can be painful and uncomfortable, but several treatment options can help alleviate symptoms and prevent the condition from recurring. Here are some common Seed corn treatments:

1. Debridement:

One of the most effective treatments for seed corn is debridement, which involves removing the thickened skin around the lesion using a pumice stone, emery board, or another abrasive tool. This helps to reduce pressure on the affected area and can alleviate pain and discomfort. 

2. Salicylic acid:

This over-the-counter treatment can help soften and dissolve the thickened skin of the seed corn, making it easier to remove. It is typically applied as a liquid, gel, or plaster.

3. Pumice stone:

Gently rubbing a pumice stone on the affected area can help remove the thickened skin of the seed corn and smooth out the surrounding skin. pumice stone is very useful for Seed corn on foot treatment.

4. Moisturizing:

Keeping the feet well-moisturized can help prevent seed corn from developing and can also help alleviate existing lesions. Applying a thick, emollient cream or lotion to the affected area can help soften the skin and reduce friction. You can check the best skin Moisturizers.  Review of the Emollient, Moisturising, Keratolytic, Skin Barrier Enhancing, and Antimicrobial Properties of Urea in Dermatology.

5. Proper footwear:

Wearing properly fitting shoes with good arch support and cushioning can help prevent seed corn from developing. Avoid shoes with tight, narrow-toe boxes or high heels, as these can increase foot pressure and friction. 

6. Foot pads:

Specialized foot pads, such as felt or silicone pads, can be used to cushion the affected area and reduce pressure and friction.

7. Medications:

Sometimes, your healthcare provider may recommend using prescription medications to treat seed corn, such as salicylic acid, urea, or retinoids. These medications work by softening and reducing the thickness of the affected skin. If you and your loved ones have seed corn on bottom of foot, remove the seed corn.

8. Surgery:

In rare cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove particularly stubborn or painful seed corn. This typically involves excising the lesion and surrounding tissue and may require a period of rest and immobilization. Also Read: Pain in Bottom Foot: Causes, Treatments and When To Visit a Doctor

How to Prevent Seed Corn on Foot?

Here are some tips to help prevent the development of seed corn on feet:

• Wear properly fitting shoes that provide good support and cushioning.

• Choose shoes made from breathable materials to reduce moisture buildup.

• Avoid wearing high heels or shoes with pointed toes, as these can increase pressure and friction on the feet.

• Use protective padding for cushions to reduce pressure on areas of the feet that are prone to seed corn.

• Keep feet clean and dry, and apply moisturizer regularly to prevent the skin from thickening.

• Practice good foot hygiene by trimming toenails straight across and avoiding cutting or digging into the sides of the nails.

• Address foot abnormalities of gait issues through physical therapy or orthotics.

• If you notice any changes in the appearance or feeling of your feet, such as the development of seed corn, consult a healthcare professional for advice on treatment and prevention.

Read Also: How To Stop Foot Cramps : 13 Scientifically-Based Methods

Conclusion -

Seed corns are painful to touch or pressure and usually form on the foot's sole. They are caused by poorly-fitted shoes that cause pressure or friction on foot. If left untreated, seed corn on feet can become a chronic and recurring problem, making it important to understand its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.  If you suspect you have seed corn on your foot, seeking medical attention to confirm the diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment is important. Also Read: Why Are My Feet Always Cold? Possible Causes and Remedies.