Foot warts, medically known as verrucae pedis (or plantar warts when on the sole), are common, benign skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) infecting the outer layer of skin on the feet. While generally harmless, they often develop on weight-bearing areas like the heels or balls of the feet, potentially causing pain or discomfort during activities like walking or standing. Understanding foot warts is the first step towards effective management and maintaining your foot health.
Recognising the signs of foot warts can help you seek timely advice. Common symptoms include:
If you notice these symptoms, especially if they cause pain or spread, consulting a podiatrist is recommended.
Foot warts are caused by specific strains of HPV, which thrive in warm, moist environments. The virus enters the body through tiny cuts, breaks, or weak spots on the bottom of your feet.
Key risk factors include:
Previous Warts: Having had foot warts before increases the likelihood of recurrence.
A podiatrist can usually diagnose foot warts through a simple visual examination of the lesion. Key diagnostic steps may include:
Accurate diagnosis is crucial to ensure you receive the appropriate treatment plan as they are commonly mistaken as Corns or calluses.
Treatment aims to remove the wart and stimulate an immune response against the virus. While some warts disappear without treatment, many require intervention, especially if they are painful or spreading. It’s essential to consult a podiatrist at Fine Podiatry Clinic to determine the best approach for your specific situation, focusing on effective non-surgical methods.
These are the primary methods used at Fine Podiatry Clinic to effectively manage foot warts:
Self-treatment with over-the-counter products can often be less potent, lead to skin irritation if misused, or fail to resolve the wart completely. Professional diagnosis and application of treatments like cryotherapy and prescription-strength chemicals at our clinic ensure safer and typically more successful results.
Experiencing foot wart discomfort? Book a Consultation at Fine Podiatry Clinic to discuss our effective non-surgical treatment options.
You can reduce your risk of getting or spreading foot warts:
Sometimes, especially in children. However, they can persist for months or years, potentially grow larger, spread, or become painful. Waiting can risk further spread or discomfort.
Warts tend to have tiny black dots and disrupt skin lines, while corns are typically hard, thickened skin caused by pressure, often painful directly over the centre, and maintain skin lines. A podiatrist can provide a definitive diagnosis.
Yes, but if the wart is painful, you might need to modify activities or use padding. Covering the wart during exercise, especially in communal areas, is important to prevent spreading.
Podiatry clinics, like Fine Podiatry Clinic, specialise in diagnosing and treating foot conditions, including warts using effective non-surgical methods like cryotherapy and chemical applications.
Foot Warts can be a frustrating condition, but effective management is possible and early treatment leads to faster results. Book a consultation now to get a proper diagnosis and personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.
