Doctor-curated

Lesser IPK Support

$10.00

The Lesser IPK support is ideal for individuals needing additional cushion and support under the small toe and the 5th metatarsal phalangeal joint.

USES:
• Claw Toes
• Little Toe IPK (Intractable Plantar Keratosis) 
• Hammertoes

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Knowledge Center

• FSA/HSA eligible
• 30-day guarantee
• Same Day Shipping from the U.S.

DOCTOR'S NOTE COMMONLY USED FOR... FAQs

The Lesser IPK (Intractable Plantar Keratosis) Support is a soft cushion gel pad designed to offload focal pressure beneath the lesser metatarsal heads. In clinical practice, intractable plantar keratoses are discrete, painful calluses that form under bony prominences as a result of abnormal plantar pressure concentration. This pad shifts weight distribution away from the prominent metatarsal head, reducing callus formation and associated discomfort. It is most effective when used in a properly fitting shoe with adequate depth.

For educational purposes only. Not a substitute for professional medical advice.

• Offloading and cushioning beneath painful lesser metatarsal heads affected by intractable plantar keratoses or focal calluses
• Redistributing forefoot plantar pressure in individuals with metatarsalgia and forefoot pain related to abnormal pressure concentration
  

Q1: What is an intractable plantar keratosis?
A: An intractable plantar keratosis is a discrete, dense callus that forms directly beneath a bony prominence — typically a metatarsal head — in response to chronic focal pressure. Unlike diffuse calluses, IPKs have a hard central core and tend to recur despite routine callus reduction without pressure offloading.

Q2: How does this pad reduce callus formation?
A: The pad redistributes plantar pressure away from the symptomatic metatarsal head. Reducing the mechanical force concentration at that site slows the rate of callus production and decreases associated discomfort during weight-bearing.

Q3: Where exactly do I position the pad on my foot?
A: The pad should be placed proximal to — just behind — the most prominent or painful metatarsal head. Placing it directly beneath the lesion can increase pressure. The goal is to transfer load to the surrounding tissue rather than to the lesion itself.

Q4: Do I need to see a podiatrist for callus treatment if I use this pad?
A: Mild calluses often respond well to padding and pressure offloading. However, persistent, painful, or recurrent calluses — especially in individuals with diabetes or poor circulation — warrant professional evaluation for underlying structural causes and appropriate clinical debridement.

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