Plantar warts develop on the bottom of our feet as round growths on the skin, described as having brown dots. Warts are caused by the papillomavirus and usually go away on their own, typically not requiring any treatment. Avoid picking at the wart to prevent infection. A potential option for treating your wart is by covering it up with tape, as “warts deprived of air and sun exposure sometimes die without the need for topical treatments.”

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, consult with one of our podiatrists from Summit Podiatry Group. 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

• Legions 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, will 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 New Providence, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about plantar warts.