Calluses: Calluses, like corns, are composed of the same material as corn, hardened patches of dead skin cells formed from keratin, but calluses develop on the ball or heel of the foot. If calluses get too big or too hard, however, they may pull and tear the underlying skin. Calluses can develop from wearing poorly fitting shoes and walking on hard surface. The presence of calluses is a strong predictor of subsequent ulceration.         

Metatarsalgia: When a cause cannot be determined, any pain on the ball of the foot is generally referred to as metatarsalgia. It most likely caused by improper footwear, particularly high heels or high-impact activities.

Plantar Fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis occurs from small tears and inflammation in the wide band of tendons and ligaments that stretches from the heel to the ball of the foot. This band, much like the tensed string in a bow, forms the arch of the foot and helps to serve as a shock absorber for the body. (The term planar means the sole for the foot, and fascia refers to any fibrous connective tissue in the body.) Plantar fasciitis is usually a result of overuse form high-impact exercise and sports and accounts for up to 9% of all running injuries.