31 Jul Plantar Warts vs. Calluses: How to Tell the Difference
Plantar warts are small, rough growths that typically appear on the soles of the feet. They’re caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which enters the skin through tiny cuts or weak spots. These warts often develop on weight-bearing areas like the heels or balls of the feet, where pressure can push the wart inward. This can lead to discomfort, especially when walking or standing. Unlike other types of warts, plantar warts may have black pinpoints, which are actually tiny blood vessels.
Because they’re caused by a virus, plantar warts can spread through direct contact or by walking barefoot in public spaces like locker rooms. They may appear alone or in clusters and can be mistaken for other skin conditions. Early recognition helps guide effective treatment.
What Are Calluses and Why Do They Form?
Calluses are thickened areas of skin that form in response to repeated friction or pressure. They are the body’s natural way of protecting skin from damage, especially in areas that endure consistent rubbing. Unlike plantar warts, calluses are not caused by a virus and are not contagious. They’re more likely to occur on the heels, balls of the feet, or under the toes due to footwear or walking patterns.
Calluses usually appear as broad, flat patches of dry, tough skin and typically don’t cause pain unless they become very thick. People who wear ill-fitting shoes, walk barefoot often, or spend long hours on their feet may be more prone to developing them. A callus doesn’t have the small black dots seen in warts and usually has a more uniform texture.
How Can You Tell the Difference Between Plantar Warts and Calluses?
One key difference between plantar warts and calluses lies in their appearance and how they respond to pressure. Warts often interrupt the normal skin lines and may feel tender when squeezed from the sides, while calluses tend to maintain the skin’s natural ridges and cause pressure-based discomfort. A plantar wart may have a cauliflower-like texture with small black dots, which are absent in calluses.
Another difference is how the skin grows. Warts tend to grow inward due to pressure, creating a central core, while calluses build outward in layers. If you try to file a callus, it gradually smooths down. But when filing a wart, pain or bleeding may occur. These signs can help distinguish between the two before seeking treatment.
If you have persistent foot pain or aren’t sure whether you’re dealing with a wart or a callus, it’s best to consult a provider. A podiatrist can examine the area and offer treatments based on an accurate diagnosis. Over-the-counter remedies may work for minor calluses or early-stage warts, but professional care is often more effective and faster.
See a Healthcare Provider
In some cases, plantar warts may resist treatment and recur, requiring freezing, topical solutions, or other in-office options. If a callus becomes too thick or painful, a specialist can remove the buildup safely and discuss preventive steps. Knowing when to get help keeps small foot issues from becoming bigger concerns.
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