What should you know about heel callus pain?

A callus forms when repeated friction or pressure makes the outer skin layer thicker. It can feel hard, tender, or painful when standing, especially if shoes compress the heel or the foot is loading unevenly. Dry skin may split and sting. Pain beneath the callus, tingling, swelling, or pain that continues after pressure is removed suggests the callus may not be the whole explanation. Other causes of Heel Pain include Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles Tendinitis, Stress Fracture, Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, or Sever's Disease in a growing child.

Use cushioned, well-fitting footwear and socks that reduce rubbing. Moisturise intact skin regularly, but keep cream between the toes dry. A gentle foot soak followed by light filing may reduce surface thickness; stop if the skin is sore, cracked, bleeding, or inflamed. Never cut a callus with a blade. People with diabetes, reduced sensation, poor circulation, or a history of foot ulcers should have foot-care advice before filing or using medicated products. Custom Orthotics may help when pressure is uneven, after a professional assessment.

Arrange prompt assessment for bleeding, pus, spreading redness, warmth, an open crack, or increasing swelling. Seek care if you cannot walk normally, pain is deep or focal, or the area does not improve after footwear pressure is corrected. Numbness, a cold or discoloured foot, or a rapidly worsening wound needs urgent attention. A podiatry or medical examination can distinguish a callus from a wart, ulcer, infection, or deeper problem.

Ask: Is this definitely a callus? What is creating the pressure? Is filing safe for my skin and circulation? Would Custom Orthotics help? Which changes in colour, drainage, sensation, or pain should prompt an earlier review?