Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are a common skin infection that can develop on the soles of the feet, causing discomfort and, in some cases, pain. In this article, we will discuss what plantar warts are, their causes, symptoms, and whether they are contagious.

If you are experiencing persistent or painful foot warts, Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Center in Greater Columbus, Ohio, can help you explore the most effective treatment options. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

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What Are Plantar (Foot) Warts?

Plantar warts are noncancerous skin growths that appear on the bottom of the foot. Unlike other types of warts that grow outward, plantar warts often grow inward due to pressure from walking or standing. These warts may appear as rough bumps with tiny black dots, which are clotted tiny blood vessels.

Plantar warts can occur individually or in clusters, known as mosaic warts. They commonly develop on weight-bearing areas of the foot, such as the heels and balls of the feet, which can make walking uncomfortable.

What Causes Plantar Warts?

Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), specifically strains that infect the outer layer of the skin. The virus enters the skin through small cuts, cracks, or weak spots. HPV thrives in warm, moist environments, making public showers, swimming pools, and locker room floors common places for exposure.

Some individuals are more prone to developing plantar warts, particularly those with a weakened immune system or skin conditions that cause breaks in healthy skin. While anyone can get a wart on foot, children, teenagers, and people who frequently walk barefoot in public areas are at higher risk.

What Are the Symptoms of Foot Warts?

Foot warts have distinct characteristics that can help differentiate them from other skin conditions. Common symptoms include:

Rough bumps on the sole of the foot, often with a grainy texture
A wart on the foot with tiny black dots, which are clotted blood vessels
Pain or tenderness when walking or standing
A thickened, callus-like layer of dead skin over the wart due to pressure
Mosaic warts, which appear as clusters of smaller warts

Unlike corns or calluses, plantar warts may cause discomfort when squeezed from the sides rather than direct pressure from above.

Are Plantar Warts Contagious?

Yes, plantar warts are contagious and can spread through direct contact with infected skin or contaminated surfaces. The virus can be transmitted by walking barefoot in communal areas or sharing personal items like towels or socks with an infected person.

While not everyone who comes into contact with HPV will develop a wart, factors like healthy skin, a strong immune system, and proper foot hygiene can help reduce the risk.

How Are Plantar Warts Diagnosed?

A healthcare professional can diagnose plantar warts through a physical examination. In some cases, they may:

Trim away dead skin to check for black dots or a wart’s grainy texture
Use a magnifying tool to inspect the wart’s structure
Perform a skin infection biopsy if the diagnosis is unclear

Early diagnosis is essential, as plantar warts can become painful and more difficult to treat over time.

How Are Plantar Warts Treated?

There are multiple treatment options for plantar warts, depending on their size, location, and severity. While some warts disappear on their own, others require medical intervention to treat warts effectively.

Common treatments include:

Salicylic acid: A topical chemical that gradually removes layers of the wart and stimulates the immune system to fight the virus.
Liquid nitrogen (cryotherapy): Freezes the wart, causing it to die and eventually fall off. This method may require several treatments for full effectiveness.
Laser treatment: Targets and destroys the wart’s tiny blood vessels, cutting off its nutrient supply.
Minor surgical removal: A procedure to cut or burn off the wart. This method is usually reserved for persistent cases.
Immunotherapy: Can trigger a mild allergic reaction to stimulate the body’s immune response against the virus.

Home Remedies

For mild cases, some individuals attempt home remedies to treat warts before seeking medical care. These methods include:

Salicylic acid treatments, available over the counter, which must be applied daily for several weeks.
Duct tape occlusion therapy, which involves covering the wart to gradually wear it down.
Apple cider vinegar or other natural acids to break down the wart tissue.

While home remedies may be effective for some, persistent or painful warts typically require professional treatment.

Can Foot Warts be Prevented?

Although plantar warts can be difficult to avoid entirely, there are steps to reduce the risk of developing plantar warts:

Wear shoes or sandals in public places to prevent exposure to HPV.
Keep feet dry and clean, as warts thrive in moist environments.
Avoid direct contact with warts, whether on yourself or others.
Do not share personal items, such as socks, shoes, or nail clippers.
Consider the HPV vaccine, which may offer protection against some strains of the virus.

Taking these preventive measures can help protect your healthy skin and lower the chances of getting a wart on your foot.

Take the Next Step Toward Healthy Feet

Plantar warts can be frustrating and uncomfortable, but with the right treatment options, relief is possible. If you have a persistent or painful wart on your foot, Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Center in Greater Columbus, Ohio, offers professional care to help treat warts effectively.

Schedule an appointment today to explore your options and take the first step toward healthier, pain-free feet!

Medically reviewed by Sarah Abshier, DPM, CWS

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