Heloma is a medical term used to describe a thickened or hardened area of skin on the foot. The word is spelled as [hɛləʊmə] in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable is pronounced with the vowel sound "e" as in "peck", followed by the "l" sound. The second syllable is pronounced with the vowel sound "o" as in "go", followed by the "m" and "ə" sounds. The spelling of "heloma" reflects its Greek roots, where "helos" means "corn" or "callus" and "oma" means "tumor" or "mass".
A heloma refers to a common foot condition characterized by the formation of a thickened and hardened patch of skin, commonly known as a corn. This condition typically occurs due to excessive pressure or friction on a specific area of the foot, causing the skin to thicken in an attempt to protect itself. Helomas often appear on weight-bearing areas of the foot, such as the soles, toes, or sides, and can be extremely painful or uncomfortable.
There are various types of helomas, including hard corns and soft corns. Hard corns are dry and have a firm core, typically developing on the tops or sides of the toes. Conversely, soft corns are usually found between the toes, appearing moist and rubbery due to the exposure to sweat. Both types result from continuous rubbing against footwear or adjacent toes.
Treating helomas often involves relieving the pressure or friction that caused their formation. This can be achieved by wearing properly fitted shoes or using protective padding. Additionally, filing or gently removing the thickened skin with a pumice stone may help alleviate discomfort. In severe cases, a podiatrist may prescribe custom orthotics or recommend surgical intervention to address underlying foot deformities.
Regular foot hygiene and practices that minimize repetitive friction or pressure on the feet can help prevent the development of helomas. It is crucial to consult a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan, as untreated helomas can lead to further complications or infections.
Clavus, a corn, a callosity on the hand or foot.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "heloma" has its origins in the Greek language. Specifically, it can be traced back to the Greek word "helos", which means "a wound" or "an ulcer". The term "helomatos" refers to a corn or a callus. Over time, this word underwent changes and adaptations, eventually leading to the term "heloma" as it is used today in medical and podiatric contexts to describe a thickened area of skin caused by repeated pressure or friction.