Plantar calluses are thickened areas of skin that develop on the bottom of your feet. They usually form as a protective response to repeated pressure or friction. If you notice a hard spot on the bottom of your foot, it could be a plantar callus. Many people confuse plantar callus on foot with other foot conditions, such as corns and calluses or even plantar warts. In this blog, we’ll explore how to get rid of plantar callus, its causes, treatment options, and prevention tips.
A plantar callus is a tough, thickened area of skin that develops on the soles of the feet. It forms as a natural defense against constant pressure and friction, often caused by walking or standing for long periods. The callus usually appears as a large, hard spot on the bottom of the foot also known as a hard spot on bottom of foot. These areas of thickened skin are often painless but can become uncomfortable if left untreated.
Typically, a plantar callus form on the heel or the balls of the feet. The skin thickens to protect the underlying tissues from pressure. If ignored, a plantar callus can become painful and lead to complications, especially in people with foot problems like flat feet or high arches.
Plantar calluses have distinct characteristics.
A plantar wart often feels more painful when pressure is applied, and you might notice small black dots within the growth. Knowing the difference is essential for effective treatment.
Several factors contribute to the development of plantar calluses. Friction and pressure are the primary causes. When your feet experience continuous rubbing, the skin thickens as a protective response. The following are some of the main causes:
If you’ve noticed a callus on the bottom of foot, you might wonder how to get rid of a plantar callus. The good news is that plantar calluses can usually be treated with simple at-home methods.
However, if the callus is large or painful, seeking professional care might be necessary. A podiatrist can safely remove the callus, and in some cases, they may suggest treatments like cryotherapy or laser removal for more persistent calluses.
{{palmo-cta-banner}}
While you can treat plantar callus on foot, it’s always better to prevent them from forming in the first place. Here are some tips:
It’s important to differentiate between a plantar callus and a plantar wart. While both conditions involve growths on the soles of the feet, they differ in several ways.
Although most plantar calluses can be treated at home, there are times when professional help is necessary. If the callus causes significant pain or shows signs of infection, it’s important to seek medical advice.
Additionally, people with diabetes or circulatory problems should avoid self-treatment for calluses. A hole in a foot callus may develop if the callus becomes too deep, potentially leading to infections. In these cases, a podiatrist can offer a safe and effective treatment plan to prevent complications.
Distinguishing Plantar Calluses from Olmsted Syndrome, Plantar Hyperkeratosis, and Keratoderma Blennorrhagicum
Plantar calluses can sometimes be confused with other skin conditions linked to genetic disorders, such as Olmsted Syndrome. This rare condition causes severe thickening of the skin on the palms and soles, often resembling calluses.
In some cases, a plantar callus on the foot may overlap with a condition called Plantar Hyperkeratosis, which refers to excessive thickening of the skin. This condition often results from continuous friction and pressure, much like calluses, but may require specific treatments if it becomes severe.
It’s important to differentiate plantar calluses from conditions like Keratoderma Blennorrhagicum, a skin disorder associated with reactive arthritis. While both conditions involve thickened skin on the soles, Keratoderma Blennorrhagicum often presents with additional symptoms, such as scaling or pustules.
Clinical trials in dermatology play a vital role in advancing treatments for various skin conditions. These trials often focus on rare or challenging disorders, such as palmoplantar keratoderma clinical trials, which aim to find effective solutions for this painful and thickened skin condition. Many ongoing studies in dermatology are paid, providing compensation for participants' time and travel. By joining these trials, individuals not only contribute to scientific progress but also gain early access to potentially life-changing treatments.
{{palmo-cta-banner}}
In summary, a plantar callus is a common foot condition caused by repeated pressure or friction. While usually painless, it can become uncomfortable if untreated. Effective ways to get rid of plantar callus include soaking, exfoliating, and using over-the-counter treatments. Prevention is essential—wearing properly fitted shoes significantly reduces the risk of developing calluses. Additionally, many paid research studies focus on finding treatments for rare skin conditions like Palmoplantar Keratoderma (PPK) and others. Exploring these studies can provide valuable insights into better management and treatment options.
