If you notice a bump or growth on your foot, you might wonder if it’s a plantar wart or a corn. These two skin conditions have distinct differences worth knowing.
A plantar wart is a small viral growth, usually found on the sole of your foot. It’s flesh-colored and may have dark speckles inside. In contrast, a corn is a hardened skin area, often found on your fingers, toes, and elbows. Corns are typically yellowish and slightly raised.
Both conditions need medical attention if they start bleeding when rubbed or pressed, as it can be hard to differentiate them without professional help. If these bumps aren’t causing any discomfort, they don’t require immediate treatment, but it’s wise to consult with a doctor to get the right diagnosis and treatment options.
Plantar warts often grow on pressure points or weight-bearing areas of the feet, such as the balls of your feet or between the toes. They have a rough, cauliflower-like appearance and are usually gray or black. Corns, on the other hand, develop on areas experiencing persistent pressure, like the side of a big toe joint. They can be red, inflamed, painful, and occasionally fluid-filled.
The main difference lies in their location: plantar warts are typically on the sole or fleshy parts of your foot, whereas corns appear where your toes bend or in areas that experience friction.
Anyone can develop these conditions, though they are common in people over 40. Corns are generally larger with a defined, mound-like surface, while warts tend to be smaller and have a soft, uneven surface. If you’re uncertain about which condition you have, seeing a doctor is best for proper guidance and treatment.
Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which leads them to appear as small bumps that can grow to a few centimeters over time. They have a thick, cauliflower-like look, usually appearing on the bottom of the foot. The infection can spread easily through direct contact, especially in places like swimming pools or gyms.
Corns are the skin’s response to excessive pressure creating layers of hard skin. They’re often triggered by tight shoes or repeated friction, and can range in size and color. People with diabetes or psoriasis may be more prone to developing corns.
For treatment, doctors may scrape the growth for testing. Warts often disappear on their own in months, but you can try over-the-counter products for faster removal. Corn treatment involves removing the source of pressure, using soft shoe inserts, and filing down the corn with a pumice stone. If a corn doesn’t improve with home treatment, a doctor can remove it during an office visit.
Understanding the differences between plantar warts and corns will help you address them properly and determine if you might have HPV. Ensure to seek medical advice for appropriate treatment if needed.
