Definition: Corn protectors do just that – protect corns from being rubbed or irritated. They are used for hard (on top or side of the toes) and soft corns (between the toes). They come in moleskin, felt, foam and gel. They are made in donut, band-aid and tube styles. The gel styles secrete mineral oil that moistures the skin. Some may be allergic to the oil.
As with toecaps, the better alternative is to wear shoes that have an adequate toe box and are the right shape, length and width for the foot. Shoes are available with stretchable uppers. Many times just spot stretching a shoe at the corn site will eliminate the need for protectors. For soft corns, toe spreaders take up less space in the toe box than these protectors do.
Benefits: Protectors do protect the area around the corn but as noted above, it is better to wear shoes with a higher toe box and the right shape for the foot and/or spot stretch to alleviate pressure on the corns.
Text: Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig Image: Foothealth.com