Warts on the feet, particularly plantar warts, are a common skin condition caused by the human papillomavirus, HPV. These warts occur when the virus enters the skin through tiny cuts, breaks, or weak spots, often on the soles of the feet. This virus thrives in warm, moist environments, making public places like swimming pools, locker rooms, and communal showers prime locations for spreading HPV. Walking barefoot in these areas can increase the risk of contracting plantar warts. Plantar warts often appear as small, rough, and grainy lesions, typically on weight-bearing areas such as the heels or balls of the feet. Unlike other types of warts, plantar warts tend to grow inward due to pressure from walking or standing, which can cause a flat appearance and make them difficult to detect at first glance. These warts may have tiny black dots within them, which are small, clotted blood vessels. If you have this type of wart on your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 Egg Harbor Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.