Heel Callus
What Is a Heel Callus?
Heel calluses, also called plantar calluses, develop when one metatarsal bone is longer or lower than the others and hits the ground with more force than it is equipped to handle. As a result, the skin under this bone thickens to protect the area. The resulting callus causes irritation and pain.
Unlike general dry skin, a plantar callus has a structural cause — the uneven load distribution across the forefoot. Without addressing this underlying issue, calluses will continue to form and cause discomfort.
Conservative & Surgical Options
In most cases, heel calluses can be treated without surgery using conservative measures. For severe, recurring cases, a surgical procedure called an osteotomy can provide a permanent solution.
Professional debridement to safely remove thickened callus tissue.
Custom orthotics to redistribute pressure evenly across the foot.
Padding and offloading devices to protect the affected area.
Proper footwear guidance to minimize abnormal pressure points.
Osteotomy surgery (cutting the metatarsal bone in a "V" shape to realign it) for severe cases.