Foot pain or thickened skin on the feet is a common concern, and two conditions that are frequently confused are warts and corns. Although they may appear similar, they have different causes and are managed in different ways. Understanding these differences can help patients know when to seek professional foot care.
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for an in-person assessment by a licensed chiropodist.
What Is a Corn?
A corn is an area of localized thickened skin that develops in response to repeated pressure or friction. Corns are commonly associated with footwear, foot structure, or abnormal pressure points during walking.
Corns commonly:
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Develop due to pressure or rubbing
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Appear round and well-defined
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May have a firm central core
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Are often tender when direct pressure is applied
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Are not infectious
Reducing pressure and addressing contributing factors are often part of managing corns.
What Is a Wart?
A wart on the foot, often referred to as a plantar wart, is caused by a viral infection of the skin. These lesions may develop on weight-bearing areas and can vary in appearance.
Warts commonly:
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Are associated with a viral infection of the skin
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May show small dark spots within the lesion
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Interrupt normal skin lines
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Can be uncomfortable, particularly when pressure is applied from the sides
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May spread to other areas of the foot or to other individuals
Because warts have a different underlying cause than corns, management approaches differ.
Why Warts and Corns Are Often Confused
Warts and corns can look similar because they may both:
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Present as thickened or hardened skin
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Cause discomfort with walking or standing
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Develop on the soles of the feet
Without a clinical assessment, it can be difficult to tell the difference based on appearance alone.
Why Assessment Matters
Accurate identification of foot lesions is important in determining appropriate care. Treating the wrong condition may lead to ongoing discomfort or lack of improvement. A chiropody assessment allows for evaluation of the lesion, contributing factors, and discussion of suitable management options.
When to Consider Seeing a Chiropodist
You may wish to seek professional foot care if you:
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Have a painful or persistent lesion on your foot
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Notice changes in size, appearance, or discomfort
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Have diabetes or other conditions affecting circulation or healing
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Are unsure whether a lesion is a wart, corn, or another concern
Key Takeaway
Although warts and corns can appear similar, they are different conditions with different causes. Proper assessment by a licensed chiropodist can help clarify the diagnosis and guide appropriate care.