An IPK stands for Intractable Plantar Keratosis.
In plain English, it’s a deep, painful callus on the bottom of the foot—usually under a pressure point like the ball of the foot.
What makes an IPK different from a regular callus?
A normal callus:
Broad, flat, not usually painful
An IPK:
Has a hard central core (“plug”) that pushes into the skin
Feels like stepping on a pebble or nail
Can become very painful when walking
Continue scrolling for real patient Before & Afters as well as explanation as to why an IPK happens.
Why it happens
IPKs are almost always caused by excess pressure in one spot, often from:
Bone structure (prominent metatarsal head)
Foot deformities (like hammertoes)
Tight shoes or high heels
Abnormal gait / walking pattern
👉 In other words: your foot mechanics are creating a pressure hotspot
How it’s treated
Short-term relief
Professional debridement (trimming it down)
Padding / offloading the pressure
Keratolytic creams (like Urea)
Long-term fix (this is what actually matters)
In stubborn cases: minor surgical correction of the pressure point
Custom orthotics to redistribute pressure
Post treatment care protocol
Don’t tolerate that uncomfortable feeling of having an IPK.
The patient below was struggling for weeks before having this treated.
Initial photo pre treatment
During callus removal
After core removal
After final removal of center core with ceramic burr
What people get wrong
Most people treat an IPK like a cosmetic issue. It’s not.
It will keep coming back unless you fix the pressure causing it.
When to see a podiatrist
Pain when walking
Keeps returning after trimming
You’re unsure if it’s a wart vs IPK
Dr. Roth explains the Concierge Advantage when it comes to treating IPK’s. (Intractable Plantar Keratosis)
Intractable Plantar Keratosis
Watch as Dr. Roth explains the Concierge Advantage when treating painful IPK’s. Dr. Roth gets to the “core” of the problem when others are unable. Find out how you can regain your confidence when walking and get rid of the pain.
Can IPK’s be cured?
Dr Roth explains his unique technique for treating IPK’s and how patients respond. Special information you don’t want to miss!