What are plantar warts? Dr. Karan Malani provides information about plantar warts, symptoms, and treatment options.
Many warts are not painful, and this often depends on where they develop on the foot. A plantar wart grows inward on the sole of the foot, and this happens from the weight the feet must endure. It 
appears as a thick, rough patch of skin and may have black dots in the center. It is caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, and can enter the body through small cracks in the skin. This virus lives in warm environments, such as public swimming pools, locker rooms, and shower room floor. Wearing flip flops or water shoes is recommended while frequenting these types of places which may help to prevent the virus from invading the skin.
A plantar wart may grow in size, and there may be a cluster of them. If you have developed plantar warts, please contact a podiatrist who can choose one of several treatment methods that are correct for you.
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 of those suffering from diabetes, or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scaping 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 one of our podiatrist. He or she can recommend the appropriate treatment options. Family Foot & Leg Center offers the latest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Contact Dr. Malani’s office at (239) 430-3668 (FOOT) or visit www.NaplesPodiatrist.com to schedule an examination.
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