Plantar warts are small, hard growths that appear on the bottom of the feet, often on the heel or the ball of the foot. They are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, which enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions. While these warts are generally harmless, they can be painful, especially when pressure is applied while standing or walking. Plantar warts are contagious and can spread from person to person, typically in damp, warm environments like public showers or swimming pools. These warts often appear as rough, thickened areas of skin with tiny black dots, which are small blood vessels. Although they may go away on their own, plantar warts can take months or even years to disappear. Relief options include mild removal applications, cryotherapy, or in some cases, surgical removal. Plantar warts can cause pain and discomfort, and may lead to difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can offer you effective treatment and relief solutions.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from William Street Podiatry. 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

• 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 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 one of our offices located in William Street in New York, NY, Forest Hills, NY, and Broadway in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.