What are plantar warts?
Plantar warts (foot warts) are skin growths that are caused by a viral infection (HPV). They have a spongy appearance with tiny red or black spots. They are usually small but can grow bigger and in clusters (mosaic warts).
Plantar warts are not harmful but they can cause irritation and pain. They can spread also around the body and from person to person (direct skin to skin or contact with contaminated surfaces).
What do plantar warts feel like?
– Small
– Fleshy
– Rough
– Grainy to touch
– They can become painful and tender when you walk or stand.
– A callous may form over the wart which makes the wart grow inward.
Where do they usually occur?
They usually occur on the bottom of your foot and in weight bearing areas such as your heel, forefoot or the base of your toes.
Did you know?
Painful warts can alter your posture and the way you walk. This in turn can cause muscle and joint discomfort.
Should you get your foot wart removed?
You should see a podiatrist if:
– It is bleeding, painful or you notice changes in it’s shape and color.
– You have tried self treatment and the wart has persisted or multiplied.
– It causes you discomfort that interferes with your daily activities
– You have diabetes or a weakened immune system
Foot warts are a common foot condition we treat at Fairfield Sports Podiatry. While common, foot warts are not to be taken lightly and treatment should be sought as warts can become painful and can also spread. Our podiatrist Daniel has treated many patients with plantar warts successfully. If you think you have a plantar wart and would like to discuss treatment, please call us at 0435553668.
Daniel will examine your foot to confirm if it is a wart, corn or cyst lesion. He will then assess the thickness of the wart and how many lesions you have and determine the level of treatment you need. This can involve debridement, topical ointments or silver nitrate applications depending on his assessment of your wart.
Tip: Avoid direct contact with warts. Wash your hands if they have been in contact with warts to avoid further spreading.[/fusion_text]