Metatarsal Problems / Callus / IPK

In severe cases of calluses, which usually occur on the plantar aspect (bottom) of the foot, an IPK can develop. An IPK is, in medical terminology, an

• Intractable, meaning that it will not go away,

• Plantar, meaning bottom of the foot,

• Keretosis, meaning a deep seated painful callus that usually occurs under a weight bearing metatarsal (long bone of the foot).

Intractable Plantar Keratoma (IPK) is one of the common problems seen in the foot. An IPK is a “deep callus” which is extremely painful. Intractable is a synonym for the fact that the callus will not go away by itself. Plantar means the bottom of your foot. Keratoma is a hard, thickened portion of skin. An IPK is associated with abnormal pressure caused by a misaligned metatarsal bone. When one metatarsal bone is longer or lower than the others it hits the ground first with more force than it is equipped to handle. This condition is often referred to as a dropped metatarsal. The pain is extreme. Our patients tell us it is like walking on a stone. They can also be caused by the wart virus and can occur throughout the rest of the plantar foot for various reasons.

Conservative care includes trimming and padding the IPK, which alleviates the pain for a short period of time. If a misaligned bone is causing the problem then it will simply rebuild the IPK. Other types of conservative care include metatarsal bars and Orthotics. These devices redistribute body weight from the misaligned metatarsal bone to the other parts of the foot. Special shoes may also be used to help reduce the pressure on the foot in the area of the IPK. A strapping or tape may be applied to the foot to help some of the pain.

Removal of the intractable plantar keretosis (IPK) may be necessary or medically preferred.