Plantar warts are rough skin growths that develop on the bottom of the foot. They are caused by the human papillomavirus, also called HPV. This virus enters through small openings in the skin and affects its outer layer. Plantar warts usually form on weight-bearing areas, causing pressure that pushes them inward instead of outward. As a result, they can become painful while walking or standing. Many plantar warts have tiny black dots, which are small blood vessels inside the wart. A plantar wart is often mistaken for a corn or callus because they develop beneath thickened skin. But because plantar warts interrupt the natural lines of the skin, a podiatrist can more easily identify them during a careful foot examination.
The virus that causes plantar warts spreads more easily in warm, damp places, like locker rooms, public showers, and swimming pool areas. Walking barefoot in these locations increases the chance of exposure. Small cuts or cracks in the skin also offer an entry point for the virus. Some patients have one wart, while others develop a cluster, called a mosaic wart. Because the virus is highly contagious, plantar warts sometimes spread to nearby areas of the foot. Pain can increase as body weight presses directly against the wart.
A podiatrist can diagnose plantar warts by examining the affected area and distinguishing them from other skin conditions. Care includes advanced freezing techniques, carefully removing thickened tissue, or other office-based treatments. The type of treatment is chosen based on the size and location of the wart. Surgery may be the best choice for stubborn plantar warts that do not respond to other treatment methods. Early care can reduce discomfort, limit spreading, and improve comfort. If you have symptoms of a plantar wart, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. 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 one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
