What is the treatment for interdigital soft corns (heloma molle)?

From the Guidelines

Debridement of interdigital soft corns, also known as heloma molle, is the most effective treatment, and it should be performed by a podiatrist using manual debridement or paring of hyperkeratosis, as this approach has been shown to be effective in managing hyperkeratosis and corns 1. When treating interdigital soft corns, it is essential to prioritize a conservative approach to avoid overdebridement, which can lead to increased blistering and tenderness, particularly in patients with underlying conditions such as epidermolysis bullosa 1.

Key Treatment Strategies

• Debridement of the lesions by a podiatrist using manual debridement or paring of hyperkeratosis 1
• Assessment and correction of weight distribution, with cushioning to try to reduce hyperkeratosis build-up 1
• Use of emollients and nonadherent dressings to protect the debrided skin 1
• Pressure redistribution and cushioning to prevent development of hyperkeratosis 1

Additional Considerations

• Patients should be advised to keep the affected area clean and dry, and to wear properly fitting shoes with a wide toe box to prevent further irritation
• Over-the-counter salicylic acid products may be applied directly to the corn to help dissolve the thickened skin, but this should be done under the guidance of a podiatrist
• Custom orthotic inserts may be recommended to correct any biomechanical issues causing the corn 1

From the Research

Treatment Options for Interdigital Soft Corns

The treatment for interdigital soft corns, also known as heloma molle, can be conservative or involve various interventions. Some of the options include:

• Conservative treatment, which is recommended for most cases 2
• Use of toe sleeves and toe spacers to relieve pain from soft corns 3
• Hyaluronic acid gel injections, which have shown considerable improvement in symptoms associated with digital and interdigital corns located in nonweightbearing areas 4

Considerations for Treatment

When considering treatment for interdigital soft corns, it's essential to note that:

• The location of the corn can affect treatment, with corns in nonweightbearing areas potentially being more suitable for certain treatments like hyaluronic acid gel injections 4
• The underlying causes of the corn, such as congenital or acquired predisposing factors, should be addressed to prevent recurrence 2
• Various over-the-counter treatments and remedies are available, but their effectiveness may vary 3

Additional Treatment Modalities

Other treatment modalities that have been explored for foot problems, including corns, include:

• Microwave energy treatment, which has shown promise in reducing pain associated with hard corns 5
• Topical treatments, such as salicylic acid, which can be effective for certain foot conditions like plantar warts 3