I am desperate.
April 13, 2012 | 25,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Hendrik Bernau
Hello,
I am reaching out to you because I am very desperate. Since December 2011, I have been experiencing strong pain in my left forefoot when walking and especially when rolling off (it feels like a nail in my foot). The dermatologist ruled out warts and referred me to an orthopedist. I have now consulted two orthopedists. The X-ray did not show the need for surgery. Diagnosis: corn on a flat-spread foot, hammer toes, slight hallux valgus. Therapy: special insoles, butterfly rolling, and especially rest for 4-6 weeks. After wearing the insoles for 8 weeks, there is no improvement. I find the insoles increasingly uncomfortable. In my profession as a social worker in supported living, I rely on my own mobility (shopping, activities with disabled individuals). Additionally, I am a very active person who has always enjoyed sports (competitive dancing, jogging, etc.). Should I, at the age of only 51, be disabled for the rest of my life because of a single small corn? Thank you in advance!
Dear inquirer,
Before I address your question specifically, let me clarify one thing: you will not be mobility impaired due to this diagnosis. As is often the case in medicine, the correct therapy and communication between patient and therapist are crucial.
You mention having a corn; it would be interesting to know what kind - can you determine from your diagnosis whether it is a vascular corn (with vessels) or a neurovascular corn (with vessels and nerve endings)?
You state that the current therapy included insoles or a special shoe modification. It is indeed correct that these measures are the most obvious, as they aim to eliminate the triggering cause. However, after now, as you mentioned, 8 weeks of unsuccessful therapy, other measures should also be considered, which I would like to briefly touch upon:
- Medicated softening of the corn with a horn-softening agent, known as a "keratolytic" (e.g. salicylic acid or retinoids)
- Professional removal of the callus by a podiatrist (using a scalpel or a burr) and subsequent pressure relief
If these measures do not work or are contraindicated after consulting with your treating physician, there is also the option of surgical removal.
In any case, do not despair - there are a number of options beyond those you have already tried. Be sure to consult with another colleague (get a "third" opinion) and explain the circumstances, especially the unsuccessful therapy so far - and ask about alternatives.
I hope I have been able to assist you. If you have any further questions, I am available at any time.
Wishing you good health.
Best regards,
Dr. med. - anonymized -
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