Find out all about this common foot problem and how you can prevent it.
Verrucae or plantar warts are caused by a virus known as the human papillomavirus (HPV). With over 100 different strains of HPV, there are several strains responsible for causing these warts that develop on the soles of the feet. Plantar warts are the second most common form of warts. Since they develop on the soles of the feet they can often be very uncomfortable. Find out more about plantar warts and when to turn to our Williamsburg, VA, podiatrists Dr. Sara Bouraee and Dr. Jon Houseworth for care
What are the signs of a plantar wart?
A plantar wart is a small, flesh-colored growth found on the soles of the feet that sometimes has small black dots in it (these are actually little blood vessels). This bumpy and sometimes grainy wart can cause foot pain, particularly when walking or standing. If you suspect that you might have plantar warts but you’re not entirely sure, it’s always a good idea to play it safe and schedule an appointment with our Williamsburg, VA, podiatric team. We can easily diagnose plantar warts just by looking at them.
How can I prevent plantar warts?
Since a virus (the human papillomavirus, to be more specific)causes plantar warts, these warts are contagious. The human papillomavirus (HPV) enters the skin through a cut or broken skin and it may take several weeks or months before a plantar wart even develops. However, some people can be infected with HPV and never show signs of warts.
The best way to prevent plantar warts from happening to you is to wear shoes while using public spaces like gym locker rooms and showers, as well as public pools; however, it is possible to even contract the plantar wart-causing virus from the shower in your own home if someone you live with also has warts.
What are the common treatments for plantar warts?
There are a few over-the-counter treatments that can remove plantar warts. One method uses a solution made with salicylic acid, which is effective at eliminating these growths.
You can also opt for over-the-counter freezing kits that use liquid nitrogen to freeze and kill the wart. However, for more severe conditions, you may need to see your podiatrist to have it surgically removed. If you have nerve damage in your feet or diabetes, it’s important that you turn to our Williamsburg, VA, foot doctors for treatment and do not try and treat plantar warts yourself.
If you want to have us remove your plantar warts quickly and effectively, we can easily do that in our Williamsburg or Hampton, VA, office. Schedule an appointment with our podiatric team here at Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists by calling 757-224-7605.