If a corn is not removed, it can grow larger, cause pain, potentially lead to infection, and make walking difficult.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
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Increased Size and Pain: Untreated corns continue to thicken as the skin attempts to protect itself from friction or pressure. This thickening can intensify pain, especially when walking or wearing shoes.
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Difficulty Walking: The pain associated with a large corn can alter your gait (the way you walk) as you try to avoid putting pressure on the affected area. This altered gait can lead to pain in other parts of your foot, ankle, knee, hip, or back.
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Infection: Cracks or fissures can develop in corns, especially if they are dry and thick. These cracks provide an entry point for bacteria, increasing the risk of a localized skin infection. In individuals with diabetes or poor circulation, even a minor infection can become serious and require antibiotics or, in severe cases, surgical intervention.
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Ulcer Formation: In people with diabetes or nerve damage (neuropathy), a corn can break down the skin and form an ulcer. Because of reduced sensation in their feet, they may not realize they have an ulcer until it becomes severely infected.
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Bursitis: A bursa is a fluid-filled sac that cushions bones, tendons, and muscles. The pressure from a corn can irritate a bursa in the foot, leading to bursitis, a painful inflammation.
In summary, ignoring a corn can lead to a cascade of problems, from increasing discomfort to serious complications like infection and ulceration. Addressing the underlying cause of the corn (ill-fitting shoes, foot deformities, etc.) and properly treating the corn are essential for preventing these issues.
