An unusual mechanical hyperkeratosis of the soles--health sandals keratosis.

A series of 13 patients with hyperkeratosis of both soles of the feet are presented. All patients developed hyperkeratosis after wearing the so-called “health sandals”, which have multiple projections on their upper surfaces to stimulate the soles while walking. There was no evidence of hereditary or systemic factors producing the hyperkeratosis and it was concluded to be due to chronic mechanical stimulation of the soles. This side effect of the wearing of “health sandals” (health sandals keratosis) should be noted by dermatologists.