Heloma
1. [noun] see " Corns " in glossary. There are three most common types of Corns Seed Corns (heloma miliare): A seed corn, as the name implies, is a small, dry and stiff seed-like bump that can develop anywhere on the foot but typically pops up on the ball or heel of the foot, or on weight bearing areas. There are two types of corns. Soft corns (heloma molles) usually occur as the result of bone abnormalities in the toes. They develop between the toes and are sometimes referred to as "kissing corns." Hard Corns (heloma durum): Hard corns (heloma durums) are the most common type. They are caused primarily by ill-fitting shoes and toe deformities. They usually develop on the tops and tips of the toes and on the sides of the feet. In many people, the toes curl downward and do not lie flat. Fitting curled toes into shoes with tight toe boxes is a common cause of hard corns. The toes remain curled inside the shoe and press against the inside of the shoe, usually at the toe joints. Additionally, the tip of the curled toe presses against the sole of the shoe. The skin compensates for this added pressure by thickening at the point of contact and hard corns develop to protect the underlying structure. Soft Corns (heloma molle): Soft corns typically develop between the fourth and fifth toes when one of the toe bones (phalanges) is slightly too wide. Normally, phalanges are hourglass-shaped and the ends are wider than the middle. Soft corns result when the ends of the toe bones are too wide, causing friction in between the toes. This problem is aggravated by tight-fitting shoes. People with normal toe bones can also develop soft corns. This condition is especially common in women who wear high-heeled shoes with narrow, tapering toe boxes. These shoes shift the body's weight to the front of the foot and often do not provide enough room for the toes. See: http://www.healthcommunities.com/corns/overview.shtml ; Accessed May 14 2019
Source: http://www.healthcommunities.com/corns/overview.shtml
Frequently Asked Questions
How do seed corns differ from hard and soft corns when they develop on the foot?
Seed corns (heloma miliare) are small, hard, and dry bumps that can appear in various weight-bearing areas. They differ from hard corns, which are larger and form from constant pressure against shoe interiors, and from soft corns that usually develop between the toes.
What everyday foot activity may contribute to the development of helomas like hard corns?
Everyday actions such as prolonged walking or standing, especially in shoes that are too tight, can create pressure on the tops and tips of toes. This repeated friction may lead to the development of hard corns as the skin thickens in response.
How can understanding the Latin roots of heloma miliare help with recognizing seed corns?
The Latin term heloma miliare hints at a seed-like appearance, emphasizing that these corns are small and discrete. This etymology assists in recalling that seed corns are tiny, stiff bumps commonly found on the ball or heel of the foot.