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Bunions vs Corns: Knowing the difference

Do you ever wonder what’s going on with your feet when you notice a strange bump or hard patch of skin? Many people confuse bunions and corns, and it’s easy to see why—they’re both foot issues that can cause discomfort.

But the truth is, they’re entirely different problems with different causes, symptoms, and treatments. Let’s dive in and explore what bunions and corns are, how to tell them apart, and the best ways to take care of your feet so they are more comfortable and healthy.

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Bunion vs Corn: A Quick Comparison

Before we get into the details, here’s a simple breakdown to help you identify a bunion or corn at a glance:

FeatureBunionCorn
What is it?A bony bump on the big toe jointThickened skin caused by friction or pressure
Where does it form?At the base of the big toeOn toes, soles, or sides of the feet
What does it feel like?Painful swelling and misalignmentHard, tender patch of skin

Got it? Great! Now, let’s take a deeper look at each condition and how they differ.

What is a bunion?

A bunion is a bony lump that forms at the base of the big toe joint. It happens when the big toe starts leaning toward the smaller toes, causing the joint to stick out. This can lead to swelling, redness, and a lot of discomfort—especially in snug shoes.

What Does a Bunion Look Like?

Imagine a noticeable bump on the side of your big toe joint. It might look swollen or red and feel tender when pressed. Bunions can also make it tough to find shoes that fit comfortably.

What Are Bunions on Feet Caused By?

Bunions often develop due to:

  • Genetics
  • Wearing tight or narrow shoes over long periods
  • Foot injuries or conditions like arthritis.

If you’ve got a bunion, you’re not alone—millions of people deal with them, and there are some simple solutions to help.

Two feet with visible bunions

What is a corn?

Unlike bunions, corn is a small, thickened patch of skin caused by repeated friction or pressure. They often develop on areas like the toes or soles of the feet. Corns act as the body’s natural defence to protect skin from irritation but can become painful over time.

What Does a Foot Corn Look Like?

A corn can appear as a small, hard, and circular area of skin that is either yellowish or pale. Some corns feel tender when pressed, especially if they develop on weight-bearing areas of the foot.

Causes of Corns

  • Ill-fitting shoes that cause rubbing
  • Repeated pressure or friction from walking
  • Toe deformities like hammertoes

Close up of the underside of a foot with a visible corn

How to Treat and Manage Bunions

Managing bunions starts with relieving pressure and reducing discomfort—here’s what you can do.

  • Wear comfortable shoes: Ditch the tight heels and opt for wider shoes with plenty of toe room

  • Use bunion plasters: Compeed Bunion Plasters are a great solution! They cushion the bunion, reduce pressure, and protect the skin from rubbing

  • Try orthotics: Custom insoles can help align your foot and ease the strain on your bunion

How to Treat and Manage Corns

You can treat corns by addressing the friction and softening the hardened skin—here’s how to get started.

  • Soften the Skin: Soak your feet in warm water to soften the corn, then gently file it down with a pumice stone

  • Protect with Corn Plasters: Products like Compeed Corn Plasters cushion the corn, relieve pain, and help soften it for easier removal

  • Change Your Shoes: Wear shoes that fit properly to prevent rubbing and friction

  • Seek Professional Help: If the corn doesn’t improve or causes pain, see a podiatrist for safe removal

When to See a Doctor for Corns or Bunions

You can often manage bunions and corns at home with simple care and lifestyle tweaks. But sometimes, things get a little more serious, and it’s best to call in the professionals. Ignoring ongoing pain or other symptoms can make things worse, so knowing when to see a doctor is important. Here’s what to watch out for:

For Bunions:

If your bunion is causing you constant pain or making it hard to go about your day, or you’re just finding it hard to find shoes that fit—it’s time to seek help. You should also see a doctor if your bunion looks infected if it’s red or swollen, or if your big toe joint feels stiff or loses mobility.

For Corns:

You can manage your foot corn by filing and protective plasters, but if the pain doesn’t go away or worsens, it’s a good idea to check in with a Chiropodist. Corns that become red, swollen, or show signs of infection, like pus, need professional attention. If you have diabetes or circulation problems, check them out immediately.

Remember, bunions are caused by bone misalignment, while corns result from friction. Both can be managed with proper care. Ensuring your shoes fit correctly—considering both size and width—is crucial. Get your feet measured regularly, as wider-fitting designs are available for added comfort. Choosing well-fitting footwear, staying proactive, and using products like Compeed for protection and relief can help keep your feet healthy and pain-free.

 
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