03/13/2026
Plantar wart or callus? They’re often confused, but they’re actually very different.
A callus is simply a buildup of skin caused by pressure. It usually forms over a bony area of the foot, especially under the metatarsal bones. Calluses can be easily shaved down in the office, and while they may come back if the pressure continues, they’re generally painless and straightforward to treat.
A plantar wart, on the other hand, is caused by a virus the human papillomavirus (HPV). Warts can appear on the hands or feet and often require treatment with a medicated compound or acid to destroy the wart tissue. In more stubborn cases, the wart may need to be removed after numbing the area.
If you’re not sure what you’re dealing with, it’s best to have it evaluated. Treating a wart like a callus or vice versa won’t solve the problem.
If you have a painful spot on the bottom of your foot, don’t guess. A quick visit can get you the right diagnosis and the right treatment.
