Are Bunions and Corns the Same Thing?
Introduction Foot pain is frustrating enough without the added confusion of not knowing what’s causing it. Many people mistakenly assume bunions and corns are the same thing. After all, both can make walking uncomfortable and both tend to develop near the toes. But that’s where the similarities end. At Sole Foot and Ankle, our goal is to help patients in Valparaiso, Indiana, understand their foot health. Whether you’re dealing with a visible bump or painful pressure on your toes, recognizing the difference between a bunion and a corn is the first step to effective treatment. In this post, we’ll clear up the confusion by breaking down the causes, symptoms, and treatments for both bunions and corns—and explain when you should visit a podiatrist for expert care. Key Takeaways What Are Bunions and Corns? Bunions: A Joint Deformity A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. It occurs when the first metatarsal bone shifts outward while the big toe turns inward toward the others. Over time, this misalignment causes the joint to protrude, resulting in swelling, pain, and difficulty walking. Common Symptoms of Bunions: Corns: Skin Response to Friction Corns are thickened areas of skin that develop in response to repeated pressure or friction—usually from ill-fitting shoes. They typically form on the tops or sides of toes or on weight-bearing parts of the foot. Common Symptoms of Corns: How Are They Different? Here’s a clear side-by-side comparison: Feature Bunion Corn Cause Bone misalignment and joint deformity Pressure/friction from footwear or toe deformities Location Base of the big toe (metatarsophalangeal joint) Tops, sides, or bottoms of toes or feet Appearance Bony bump near the joint Small, thickened patch of skin Pain Aching or throbbing, especially in tight shoes Sharp, localized discomfort Treatment Orthotics, toe spacers, surgery if severe Padding, footwear change, gentle debridement Common Misconceptions It’s easy to mistake one for the other, especially if pain and pressure are involved. Here are a few myths we often hear at our foot clinic in Valparaiso: What Causes Bunions and Corns? Bunion Causes: Corn Causes: Both conditions are aggravated by footwear that doesn’t provide adequate support or space for your toes. When to See a Podiatrist If you’re unsure whether you’re dealing with a bunion or a corn, a proper diagnosis is key. A podiatrist, like our team at Sole Foot and Ankle, can examine your feet, take imaging if needed, and recommend the best course of action. Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore: Ignoring the symptoms can lead to worsening deformities or infections, especially in diabetic patients. Preventing Bunions and Corns While you can’t change your genetics, you can take steps to reduce your risk: A Note from Sole Foot and Ankle At Sole Foot and Ankle, we specialize in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle conditions—whether you’re dealing with bunions, corns, or other concerns. Our experienced podiatrists offer compassionate, expert care tailored to your unique needs. If foot pain is slowing you down, don’t wait. Let us help you step forward with confidence. Schedule an appointment today or call to learn more about our personalized podiatry services.
