Plantar warts are harmless skin growths that develop on the bottom of the feet. They form when a virus causes the top layer of the skin to grow quickly. Because plantar warts appear on weight-bearing areas of the foot, they may become painful while walking or standing. Some warts eventually disappear without treatment, although this process can take months or even years. Plantar warts can also spread easily. Touching a wart and then another area of the body may spread the virus, and sharing certain personal items can pass it to other people.
Many plantar warts do not require treatment, but podiatric care may be appropriate when a wart becomes painful or begins to spread. Treatment options vary, depending on the individual and the wart. A podiatrist may prescribe a stronger topical medicine or inject a medication. Plantar warts can also be removed through freezing or a surgical procedure. Changes around a wart should receive medical attention when they suggest an infection. Increased pain, swelling, or warmth may be warning signs. Red streaks, drainage, or fever are other reasons to seek prompt medical care. A wart that does not improve as expected should also be evaluated.
A podiatrist can examine a plantar wart and determine what form of treatment is appropriate, especially when foot pain makes walking uncomfortable. Because podiatrists specialize in foot health, they can assess the affected area and discuss treatment options based on the wart and the patient’s symptoms. Follow-up care is also an important part of monitoring treatment and addressing problems that develop. Seeking podiatric care can be particularly helpful when plantar warts are persistent, spreading, or interfering with normal movement. If a painful plantar wart is making walking difficult or continues to spread, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Darren Day, DPM from Hawaii. 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 offices located in Honolulu and Kahuku, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
