dermatology

Plantar Callus: Understanding and Treating Hard Spots on the Foot

March 11, 2025

Table Of Contents

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.

Signs and Symptoms of Plantar Calluses

Plantar calluses have distinct characteristics.  

  • They usually appear as thick, hardened patches of skin on the soles of the feet.  
  • You may notice the skin becoming rough and dry.  
  • In some cases, the area may crack, causing discomfort or pain.
  • While a plantar callus on foot often doesn’t hurt, it can cause problems over time.  
  • A callus might also become larger, making it harder to walk comfortably.
  • In addition, it’s important to distinguish between a plantar callus and a plantar wart.  

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.

Common Causes of Plantar Calluses

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:

  • Improper Footwear: Tight, ill-fitting shoes can create areas of increased pressure. For example, shoes that are too tight or have high heels can force certain areas of your feet to take on more pressure, causing calluses.
  • Abnormal Foot Structure: If you have flat feet, high arches, or an abnormal gait, certain areas of your feet may bear more weight. This uneven distribution of pressure can lead to the development of calluses.
  • Activities and Footwear Choices: Activities such as running or walking long distances can also increase the risk of developing calluses. Walking barefoot on hard surfaces for extended periods is another contributing factor.
  • Obesity: Extra body weight can put additional pressure on your feet, contributing to the formation of calluses.

How to Treat a Plantar Callus

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.

  • Soaking the Feet: Begin by soaking your feet in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes. This softens the callus and makes it easier to remove.
  • Exfoliating: After soaking, use a pumice stone or a foot file to gently scrub away the thickened skin. Make sure not to remove too much skin, as this can cause injury.
  • Moisturizing: After exfoliating, apply a thick moisturizer to keep the skin soft and prevent further build-up.
  • Salicylic Acid: Over-the-counter treatments containing salicylic acid can help dissolve the hardened skin. These treatments are available as pads, gels, or ointments.

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.

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Preventing Plantar Calluses

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:

  • Wear Proper Shoes: Choose shoes that fit well and provide proper support. Avoid high heels or shoes with narrow toes that can cause pressure points.
  • Use Foot Pads: If you’re prone to developing calluses, consider using cushioning pads or insoles to reduce friction.
  • Maintain Foot Hygiene: Regularly wash and dry your feet. This helps prevent buildup of dead skin and keeps your feet healthy.
  • Inspect Your Feet: Regularly check your feet for any developing calluses or other issues. Early intervention can prevent them from getting worse.

Plantar Callus vs Plantar Wart

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.

  • Pain: A plantar wart tends to be more painful, especially when pressure is applied. In contrast, a callus is generally painless, though it can become uncomfortable over time.
  • Appearance: A plantar wart may have small black dots, which are blood vessels, and is usually raised above the skin’s surface. A callus, on the other hand, is flat and thicker, with no black dots.
  • Treatment: While a callus can often be treated at home, plantar warts might require more specialized care, such as freezing or laser treatment.

When to See a Podiatrist

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

Olmsted Syndrome

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.  

Plantar Hyperkeratosis

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.

Keratoderma Blennorrhagicum

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.

Exploring Innovations in Dermatology Clinical Trials

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.

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Conclusion

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.

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