plantar wart vs corn

Daniel Parker

3 min read

·

16-03-2025

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Foot pain can be debilitating, and sometimes it's hard to pinpoint the exact cause. Two common culprits are plantar warts and corns. While both appear as thickened skin on the soles of your feet, they have different causes and treatments. Understanding the key differences is crucial for effective management and relief. This article will help you differentiate between plantar warts and corns so you can seek appropriate treatment.

What is a Plantar Wart?

A plantar wart is a small, grainy growth on the sole of the foot caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). This common viral infection thrives in moist, warm environments. The virus enters the body through a tiny cut or break in the skin.

Key Characteristics of Plantar Warts:

• Location: Often appears on the heels or balls of the feet, areas that bear the most weight.
• Appearance: A rough, grainy texture; may be flesh-colored, grayish, or brownish.
• Pain: Typically painful, especially when pressure is applied.
• Small black dots: These are often visible, representing clotted blood vessels.
• Spread: Can spread if not treated, leading to multiple warts.

What is a Corn?

A corn is a thickened area of skin that develops as a response to repeated friction or pressure. Unlike warts, corns are not caused by a virus.

Key Characteristics of Corns:

• Location: Frequently found on the toes, particularly the smaller toes, and areas where shoes rub.
• Appearance: Hard, dense skin that is usually yellowish or whitish in color.
• Pain: Can be painful when pressure is applied, but often less painful than a plantar wart.
• No black dots: Unlike warts, corns don't have the characteristic small black dots.
• Spread: Corns do not spread like warts.

Plantar Wart vs. Corn: A Comparison Table

How to Treat Plantar Warts

Treatment options for plantar warts vary in effectiveness. Options include:

• Salicylic acid: An over-the-counter topical medication that helps break down the wart.
• Freezing (cryotherapy): A doctor can freeze the wart with liquid nitrogen.
• Laser therapy: This procedure uses a laser to destroy the wart.
• Other treatments: Cantharidin (a topical blister agent), immunotherapy (stimulates the body's immune response) and surgical removal are also options.

Important Note: Always consult a podiatrist or dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment of plantar warts. Improper treatment can lead to complications.

How to Treat Corns

Corn treatment focuses on reducing friction and pressure, and removing the thickened skin.

• Over-the-counter corn removers: These often contain salicylic acid.
• Pumice stone: Gently rubbing the corn with a pumice stone can help remove the thickened skin.
• Protective padding: Using moleskin or other padding can cushion the area and reduce friction.
• Proper footwear: Wearing shoes that fit properly and provide adequate support can prevent future corns.

When to See a Doctor

Consult a doctor if:

• You are unsure whether you have a plantar wart or corn.
• Home treatment doesn't improve the condition.
• You experience significant pain or discomfort.
• You have multiple warts or corns.
• The affected area shows signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus).

Proper identification of plantar warts and corns is essential for effective treatment. Remember to consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment, especially if you are experiencing persistent pain or if the condition worsens.