"How Does Liquid Ammonia Work to Freeze Off Corns on Feet?"

Mechanism of Liquid Ammonia Cryotherapy for Corns

The principle of using liquid ammonia for cryotherapy to treat corns primarily involves utilizing low temperatures to induce necrosis in local tissues, thereby achieving the goal of treating corns. However, since liquid ammonia is a chemical substance, its application in cryotherapy must be performed by a professional physician. Corns are a common skin condition, often arising from prolonged friction and compression, resulting in a localized, hyperplastic, keratinous lesion. These typically manifest as conical, well-defined, pale yellow or deep yellow keratin plugs on pressure points of the feet, with a hard texture, smooth surface, and either flat or slightly raised appearance. Patients generally experience no conscious symptoms. If left untreated, corns can cause significant pain during walking, and in severe cases, may even affect daily life.

Clinical treatment options for corns encompass pharmacological, physical, and surgical therapies. Among these, liquid ammonia cryotherapy is a form of physical therapy that functions by inducing necrosis in local tissues through low temperatures, enabling the gradual shedding of corns. The procedure involves applying a small amount of liquid nitrogen to the corn using a cotton swab, repeatedly, until the corn is completely frostbitten. Treatment ceases when the corn turns white and soft. During liquid ammonia cryotherapy, several precautions must be observed: first, maintain warmth to prevent hypothermia; second, keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection; and lastly, avoid spicy or irritant foods such as chili peppers and Sichuan peppers. If discomfort or adverse symptoms arise, immediate medical attention should be sought.