Callus vs. Plantar Wart: Understanding the Difference
Although both appear as thickened areas of skin, their causes are completely different.
Calluses form as a natural response to repeated pressure or friction, often from tight shoes or prolonged walking. They are the body’s way of protecting the skin.
Plantar warts, on the other hand, are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). This virus enters the skin through tiny cuts or weak areas and triggers abnormal skin growth.
How to Tell Them Apart
There are several signs that can help you distinguish between a callus and a plantar wart:
- Appearance: Plantar warts may contain small black dots, which are tiny clotted blood vessels. Calluses do not have these features.
- Pain pattern: Calluses usually hurt when pressure is applied directly from above. Plantar warts tend to be more painful when squeezed from the sides.
- Location: Calluses typically form in areas of repeated pressure, such as the heel or the ball of the foot. Plantar warts can appear in various locations on the sole, including less obvious areas.
- Sensation: A plantar wart may feel like stepping on a small pebble because it often grows inward due to pressure from walking.
