Plantar warts, caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, often develop on the soles of the feet, leading to discomfort, especially while walking. Highly contagious plantar warts typically appear as firm, rough, and flat lesions, often with small black dots at the center. They commonly affect people who use communal showers, pools, or changing areas. While plantar warts can affect anyone, people with a weakened immune system are particularly vulnerable. Diagnosis of plantar warts is generally made through visual examination to differentiate the wart from similar skin conditions, like corns or calluses. Treatment provided by a podiatrist may include cryotherapy, where the wart is frozen off, or the application of topical salicylic acid to dissolve the wart over time. A podiatrist can also offer more advanced options if the wart resists initial treatment. If you have developed a plantar wart, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Darron Barrus, DPM from Shelby Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.
While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.
Symptoms
- Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
- Hard or thick callused spots
- Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
- Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing
Treatment
- Freezing
- Electric tool removal
- Laser Treatment
- Topical Creams (prescription only)
- Over-the-counter medications
To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Alabaster, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
