Plantar keratosis is a common condition that causes a thick, rigid patch of skin to develop on the sole of the foot. You can avoid it by wearing shoes that fit well, moisturizing and exfoliating your feet regularly, and keeping your weight in a healthy range. It is brought on by repetitive friction or pressure. It may be unpleasant to walk or stand for long periods of time with these calluses. We will look at the causes, signs, and treatments of plantar keratosis in this article.
Causes of Plantar Keratosis
When the skin on the soles of the feet is repeatedly exposed to friction or pressure, plantar keratosis develops. This may be brought on by a number of things, such as:
- Ill-Fitting Shoes
Calluses can form on the foot as a result of rubbing caused by shoes that are either excessively tight or too loose.
- High heels
Calluses form on the balls of the feet as a result of pressure from high heels.
- Foot Deformities
Shoes can rub on feet with foot abnormalities like hammertoes, bunions, or flat feet, which can result in callus growth.
- Obesity
Calluses form on the foot as a result of pressure from extra weight.
- Poor foot hygiene
Calluses can develop on the foot if the skin is not moisturized or exfoliated, for example.
Symptoms of Plantar Keratosis
The most common symptom of plantar keratosis is the growth of thick, hard patches of skin on the soles of the feet. It could ache and be unpleasant to walk or stand because of these calluses. Additional indications include:
- Scaly or rough skin
The skin near the callus may start to feel scratchy or scaly.
- Yellow or Brown Coloration
The callus might become yellow or brown.
- Tenderness or Pain
The callus may hurt or itch when touched.
- Flattened or Raised Surface
Depending on how bad the situation is, the callus' surface may be flattened or elevated.
Treatment of Plantar Keratosis
Plantar keratosis can be treated in a variety of ways, including:
- Footwear Modification
It can assist to decrease friction and pressure on the soles of the feet by wearing shoes that fit properly and have enough arch support, which lowers the likelihood of callus development.
- Cushioning or Padding
Moleskin or gel pads can be used to cushion the afflicted region and minimize pressure on the callus, which will ease pain and suffering.
- Moisturizing
Frequently applying foot lotion to the feet can help soften the skin and lower the chance of callus development.
- Exfoliation
The likelihood of callus development can be decreased by exfoliating the skin on the soles of the feet.
- Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid-based over-the-counter medications can aid in softening and removing calluses.
- Foot Soaks
Calluses can be removed more easily by giving the feet a warm water and Epsom salts soak.
- Medical Treatment
In extreme circumstances, a medical practitioner might need to use a laser or scalpel to remove the callus. This is normally carried out in a hospital environment, and local anesthetic could be necessary.
When to see a Doctor
Even though plantar keratosis is frequently manageable at home, it is crucial to visit a doctor if the callus is infected or if there are symptoms of infection like pus or redness. A medical professional can give advice on what to do and help figure out what caused the callus.