A strange bump or rough patch on the bottom of your foot can be uncomfortable, especially if it starts to hurt when you walk. If you’re not sure what it is, there’s a chance it could be a plantar wart. At Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists, with offices in Hampton and Williamsburg, VA, Dr. Sara Bouraee, Dr. Sonya Wali, Dr. Carl Belock, and Dr. Meng Liu provide thorough evaluation and effective treatment options for plantar warts to help patients get back on their feet with comfort and confidence.

What Is a Plantar Wart?

Plantar warts are small, rough skin growths that appear on the soles of the feet. They’re caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which enters the skin through tiny cuts or breaks. Unlike warts on other parts of the body, plantar warts grow inward due to pressure from standing and walking. They may be flat, hard, or have a black dot in the center, which is actually a clotted blood vessel.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

If you have a foot growth that feels like you're stepping on a pebble, especially when walking barefoot, it could be a plantar wart. Some people also notice thickened skin or tenderness around the area. Plantar warts are often mistaken for calluses or corns, but warts usually interrupt the natural lines of the skin and may spread if left untreated.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

Because plantar warts can be persistent and sometimes painful, early diagnosis is important. The doctors at Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists use precise diagnostic tools to confirm if a growth is a wart and not another condition. Getting prompt treatment can help reduce discomfort and prevent the virus from spreading to other areas.

Treatment Options That Work

There are many over-the-counter remedies for plantar warts, but not all are effective. Podiatrists may recommend options like cryotherapy (freezing), salicylic acid treatments, or laser therapy for more stubborn cases. Treatment depends on the size, number, and severity of the warts, and the doctors tailor care to each patient’s needs.

When to Seek Professional Care

If you’ve noticed a new growth on your foot, especially if it’s painful or won’t go away, it’s best to get it checked by a specialist. Dr. Sara Bouraee, Dr. Sonya Wali, Dr. Carl Belock, and Dr. Meng Liu at Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists, with locations in Hampton and Williamsburg, VA, offer skilled care for plantar warts and other foot conditions. Call (757) 224-7605 for our Hampton office or (757) 220-3311 for our Williamsburg office to schedule your visit.