Corns, Callus, Warts?

By John Mina, D.P.M.

These are terms that many people use to describe painful spots on their feet. But what exactly are they. Are they the same thing? Can they be removed? If so , how big of a deal is it?

The first step is to figure out what, exactly is going on. In order to do that, we have to understand what these terms mean. A callous is a thickening of skin spread out over an area as a result of rubbing, pressure, or some other force that stresses the skin. These are less likely to cause problems. It’s the body trying to protect itself. A corn is basically the same but it is concentrated in a very small area and is usually much more painful that a callous. Finally, a wart is caused by a virus that gets in the skin (not from toads) and causes a lump to grow. If it is on the bottom of the foot it can be very painful.

So why is this difference important? Well, the wart is a lump in the skin that can just be removed. The corn is caused by pressure, frequently from one or more bones. If you just remove the corn, the pressure will continue and it will come back. The source of the pressure must be addressed.

The technique that I use to correct corns is called Minimal Incision Surgery. With this method, I can remove the cause of the problem through a tiny puncture in the skin. The whole procedure usually takes less than five minutes and no stitches are necessary.

I guess that the most important part of this article is to let you know that these conditions can be easily cured most of the time without you having to stay off your feet. You don’t have to try and figure out whether you have a corn or a wart. Let the doctor do that. You might have to take it easy for a while and maybe wear a special shoe but, when it is healed, you will most likely never have to deal with the problem again.

John Mina, DPM, ABPMS
Dr. Mina received a Bachelor’s of Science from the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida and his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine from Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia. He joined Southwest Florida Ankle and Foot Care Specialists after 14 years of experience in private practice. Dr. Mina has extensive training and experience in peripheral neuropathy and specializes in minimum incision surgery.

Credentials
• Doctor of Podiatric Medicine
• Fellow, American Board of Multiple Specialties in Podiatry
• Academy of Ambulatory Foot Surgery

Medical Education
• Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine

Professional Affiliations
• American Podiatric Medical Association
• Florida Podiatric Medical Association
• Lee County Podiatric Medical Association
• Southwest Florida Podiatry Society
• American Institute of Foot Medicine
• International College of Podiatric Laser Surgeons
• American Society of Podiatric Legal Medicine

Southwest Florida Ankle and Foot Care Specialists
www.aimsfl.com | 239-433-7433
16 locations throughout SWFL