What are Corns and Helomas?
Corns and helomas are areas of thickened skin that develop as a protective response to repeated pressure and friction. Although similar, there are key differences between them.
Tripe
Corns, also known as hyperkeratosis, usually appear on areas of the skin that bear weight or are exposed to constant friction, such as the soles of the feet. The skin thickens to protect the underlying layers from injury. Corns are usually not painful, but can cause discomfort if they become very thick.
Helomas
Helomas, popularly known as “chicken eyes”, are areas of thickened skin that are smaller and deeper than corns. They occur when friction or pressure is concentrated at a specific point. Unlike corns, helomas are usually painful because they press on nerve endings in the skin. They can be classified into several types:
- Heloma Duro: Appears on the top of the toes and soles of the feet.
- Soft Heloma: It is located between the toes.
- Vascular Heloma: Contains blood vessels and may bleed.
- Neurovascular Heloma: Contains blood vessels and nerve endings, being very painful.
Common Causes
1. Improper Footwear: Shoes that are too tight, with high heels or insufficient support can cause corns and calluses due to excessive pressure and friction.
2. Foot Deformities: Conditions such as bunions, hammertoes or flat feet can contribute to abnormal pressure distribution in the foot, leading to the formation of corns and helomas.
3. Repetitive Activities: Activities that involve repeated pressure or friction on the feet, such as running or walking long distances, may increase the risk.
4. No Socks or Inadequate Socks: Not wearing socks or wearing socks that do not fit properly can increase friction between the foot and the shoe.
Prevention and Treatment
1. Choice of Proper Footwear: Wear well-fitting, comfortable shoes with sufficient toe room and good arch support.
2. Use of Insoles and Pads: Orthopedic insoles and pads can help redistribute pressure on the feet and prevent the formation of corns and helomas.
3. Regular Foot Care: Keep the skin of the feet soft and moisturized, and use pumice or foot files to reduce the thickness of calluses.
4. Regular Visits to the Podiatrist: Consult a podiatrist for professional treatment of corns and helomas, especially if they are painful or recurrent.
Professional Treatments
Debridement: The podiatrist can cut and remove the thickened skin to relieve pain and reduce pressure.
2. Orthotics: Custom insoles can help correct foot deformities and redistribute pressure.
3. Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying cause of the friction or pressure.
Conclusion
The development of corns and calluses is the body’s natural response to excessive friction and pressure on the feet, but they can be prevented and treated with proper care. The choice of appropriate footwear, the use of orthopedic insoles and regular foot care are effective measures to prevent these conditions. If you already suffer from corns or helomas, it is essential to seek professional treatment to relieve pain and prevent further complications. At Clínica San Román, we are committed to your podiatric health and we offer you the best solutions to keep your feet in optimal conditions.
