Warts are a common skin condition caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). While they can develop on various parts of the body, warts on the feet, also known as plantar warts, are particularly bothersome. These warts often appear on the soles, heels, or balls of the feet, causing discomfort and sometimes pain when walking or standing.
At Reliant Foot & Ankle Specialists PLLC, we provide effective treatment options to help patients eliminate warts and prevent recurrence.
Understanding Plantar Warts
Plantar warts develop when the HPV virus enters the skin through small cuts or abrasions. Unlike other types of warts, plantar warts grow inward due to the pressure from walking or standing. This inward growth often creates hard, calloused skin over the wart, making it difficult to treat with over-the-counter remedies.
Symptoms of Plantar Warts
- Small, rough, grainy growths on the bottom of the foot
- Black dots (clotted blood vessels) inside the wart
- Pain or tenderness when walking or applying pressure
- Thickened skin or callus formation over the wart
- Warts that may form in clusters (mosaic warts)
Causes and Risk Factors
Warts are caused by direct contact with the HPV virus, which thrives in warm, moist environments such as locker rooms, swimming pools, and communal showers. Certain individuals are more susceptible to plantar warts, including:
- People with weakened immune systems
- Those who frequently walk barefoot in public places
- Individuals with cuts, cracks, or injuries on their feet
- Children and teenagers, who are more prone to HPV infections
Treatment Options for Plantar Warts
At Reliant Foot & Ankle Specialists PLLC, we offer several effective treatment options for plantar warts, tailored to each patient’s needs.
1. Prescription Topical Medications
- Stronger than over-the-counter treatments, prescription-strength salicylic acid can gradually remove layers of the wart.
2. Cryotherapy (Freezing the Wart)
- Liquid nitrogen is applied to freeze the wart, causing it to blister and fall off over time.
3. Laser Therapy
- Laser treatment targets and destroys the wart by cutting off its blood supply, leading to its eventual disappearance.
4. Minor Surgical Removal
- For stubborn or painful warts, a minor surgical excision may be performed to remove the wart under local anesthesia.
5. Immunotherapy
- Certain treatments help boost the body's immune response to fight off the HPV virus and clear the wart naturally.
Preventing Warts
To reduce the risk of developing plantar warts, follow these preventive measures:
- Avoid walking barefoot in public showers, locker rooms, and pools.
- Keep feet dry and wear breathable socks and shoes.
- Do not pick at warts, as this can spread the virus.
- Regularly disinfect shoes and socks.
- Boost your immune system with a healthy diet and proper hygiene.
If you suspect you have a wart or are experiencing foot pain, schedule an appointment with Reliant Foot & Ankle Specialists PLLC today. We offer expert diagnosis and customized treatment plans to keep your feet healthy and pain-free.
Address: 800 8th Ave. Suite #336, Fort Worth, TX 76104
Phone: (817) 887-9884
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Warts
1. Are plantar warts contagious?
Yes, plantar warts are contagious and can spread through direct skin contact or by touching contaminated surfaces, such as locker room floors or shared towels.
2. Can I remove a wart at home?
Over-the-counter treatments may work for small, mild warts, but stubborn or painful warts often require professional treatment to prevent recurrence.
3. How long do plantar warts last?
Without treatment, plantar warts may persist for months or even years. Proper medical intervention can help remove them faster and prevent spreading.
4. What happens if I leave a plantar wart untreated?
Untreated warts can grow larger, spread to other parts of the foot, or form clusters (mosaic warts) that are harder to treat.
5. Can plantar warts cause permanent damage?
While plantar warts are benign, prolonged pressure and irritation can cause pain and discomfort, potentially altering how you walk and leading to other foot problems.
6. How can I tell if I have a plantar wart or a callus?
Plantar warts often have black dots (clotted blood vessels) inside them, while calluses are thickened skin without black spots. If you're unsure, visit our clinic for an accurate diagnosis.
7. Do plantar warts come back after treatment?
Warts can recur if the HPV virus remains in the skin. Proper hygiene and prevention are key to reducing the risk of reinfection.
8. When should I see a doctor for a wart?
You should visit a podiatrist if:
- The wart is painful or spreading
- You have diabetes or a weakened immune system
- Home treatments haven’t worked
- The wart bleeds, changes color, or looks unusual
For expert care and effective wart removal, contact Reliant Foot & Ankle Specialists PLLC today!
Address: 800 8th Ave. Suite #336, Fort Worth, TX 76104
Phone: (817) 887-9884