Luis’s Painful Corns
Written by: Marcos Otero, Retired Physician Associate
Our Patient:
Luis, a street vendor in Bogotá, Columbia, spends 12 hours a day walking on uneven pavement in worn-out shoes. He develops painful corns on the tops of his toes, making every step agonizing. Unable to afford new footwear, he uses over-the-counter corn pads that only provide temporary relief. A charity health clinic eventually treats him with proper debridement and educates him on foot care. Luis’s condition improves, but he remains at risk without supportive footwear.
Patient: Luis – 40-year-old
Location: Medellín, Colombia 🇨🇴
Diagnosis: Corns
Background:
Luis spends long hours in ill-fitting boots, and his job requires constant standing and walking on uneven surfaces.
Presentation of Symptoms:
Luis noticed thickened, painful skin on his toes months ago, which worsened due to repeated friction and pressure from his boots.
Key Symptoms:
- Luis struggles with daily activities due to foot pain.
- Hardened, thick skin on his toes.
- Tenderness and pain when walking.
- Inflammation around the affected areas.
Diagnosis & Treatment:
- Diagnosis: Corns caused by repeated pressure and friction.
Treatment Plan:
- Trimming the corns by a podiatrist.
- Switching to properly fitted work boots.
- Daily use of moisturizing creams and protective padding.
Complications:
If untreated, the corns could ulcerate, leading to infection and difficulty continuing his physically demanding job.
Cultural and Family Support:
Luis’ wife prepares home remedies, such as applying aloe vera and soaking his feet, which provide some relief.
Life Today: Possible Outcomes
- Good Outcome: Luis follows the treatment plan, reducing the corns and improving his comfort at work.
- Bad Outcome: Persistent corns lead to infections and forced time off work, causing financial strain.
