Warts Specialist

What are plantar warts?

Plantar warts are a skin growth that typically appears on the heels or balls of your feet. They can also appear on your toes. Plantar warts often cause serious pain because your full weight bears down with each step.

What causes plantar warts?

Plantar warts develop when human papillomavirus (HPV) type 1, 2, 4, or 63 enters your skin through small cuts, scrapes, or openings. HPV can get below your skin using the tiniest of entry points, so you may not have any idea that you have it until the plantar warts appear.

What do plantar warts look like?

Plantar warts generally look like small bumps in the beginning, and they usually grow in groups. They often grow bigger and eventually develop a bumpy texture similar to a cauliflower. Your plantar warts may have dark spots or striations, which are dried blood from tiny blood vessel ruptures.

What is the treatment for plantar warts?

Your Affiliated Foot & Ankle Care podiatrist focuses on eliminating the HPV virus while also relieving your pain. Treatment for plantar warts may include one or more of the following approaches.

• Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen to freeze the plantar warts off
• Chemical removal: A solution that peels the wart away in stages
• CO2 laser: A laser cautery procedure to remove the wart, done under local anesthesia

Other types of surgical excision may also be needed for plantar warts. Your podiatrist will customize a plantar wart treatment plan that's best for permanent removal of the HPV virus and the warts.

How can I prevent plantar warts?

Plantar wart prevention focuses on avoiding the HPV virus and keeping your feet in good health. Some smart prevention tips include:

• Never walking barefoot, especially in public places like locker rooms
• Changing your socks every day
• Washing and drying your feet every day
• Inspecting your feet, including the soles, every day for changes

If you notice any changes in your feet, even if it's only very mild bumps, you may have plantar warts so see your podiatric physician at Affiliated Foot & Ankle Care right away for help.

For plantar wart removal and long-lasting pain relief, click the online scheduler or call the Affiliated Foot & Ankle Care office to make your appointment now.