Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are small, hard growths that develop on the soles of the feet as a result of a viral infection. Caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), these warts often appear on weight-bearing areas like the heel or ball of the foot, making them especially painful. While over-the-counter remedies may provide temporary relief, plantar warts can be stubborn and return if not treated effectively. Our practice offers advanced, minimally invasive treatments that target the virus, relieve pain, and help prevent recurrence.

foot and ankle from the side

Understanding Plantar Warts

Plantar warts form when HPV enters the skin through tiny cuts or weak spots, infecting the top layer of skin. Unlike other warts, plantar warts grow inward due to the pressure of standing and walking, often developing a thick layer of callus above them. They may appear as a single lesion or in clusters, known as “mosaic warts.”

What Causes Plantar Warts?

Plantar warts are spread by direct contact with the virus. Risk factors include:
  • Walking barefoot in communal areas like pools, gyms, and locker rooms
  • Small cuts, cracks, or scrapes in the skin of the foot
  • Sharing shoes, socks, or towels with someone who has warts
  • Weakened immune system that makes it harder to fight infections

Common Symptoms of Plantar Warts

  • A small, rough growth on the bottom of the foot
  • A hard callus with a visible black “wart seed” (clotted blood vessel)
  • Pain or tenderness when walking or standing
  • Clusters of warts that spread across the sole

Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Plantar Warts

Conservative treatments can help manage plantar warts, including:
  • Topical treatments with salicylic acid to gradually remove the wart
  • Cryotherapy (freezing) to destroy wart tissue
  • Prescription-strength medications for more stubborn warts
  • Laser therapy to target and eliminate the wart tissue
While some warts resolve on their own, many persist and require professional care to prevent spreading and recurrence.

Advanced & Minimally Invasive Wart Treatments

Our clinic uses modern approaches that go beyond basic freezing or topical care. These advanced treatments target the virus at its root, reducing the chance of recurrence while providing faster pain relief.

Benefits of Advanced Wart Care:

  • Quick, in-office procedures with minimal discomfort
  • Effective even for stubborn or recurring warts
  • Short recovery time with immediate return to daily activity
  • Reduced risk of scarring compared to traditional methods
  • Long-term relief and lower recurrence rates

Why Patients Choose Our Practice

We specialize in providing effective, minimally invasive care for plantar warts. By combining precise treatments with a personalized prevention plan, we not only remove painful warts but also help patients reduce their risk of future infections.

Take the First Step Toward Clear, Pain-Free Feet

If you’re struggling with plantar warts that won’t go away, don’t rely on over-the-counter treatments that only provide temporary results. Call our office today to schedule your consultation and learn about advanced wart treatments that provide lasting relief.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are plantar warts contagious?

Yes. They can spread through direct contact or by walking barefoot on contaminated surfaces such as locker room floors or pool decks.

Can plantar warts go away on their own?

Some warts may eventually resolve without treatment, but this can take months or even years. Professional care removes them more effectively and prevents spreading.

What are the best non-surgical treatments for plantar warts?

Options include salicylic acid, cryotherapy, laser therapy, and other minimally invasive procedures that destroy wart tissue without surgery.

Do plantar warts come back after treatment?

They can, especially if the virus remains in the skin. Advanced treatments that target the root of the infection help reduce recurrence.

How can I prevent plantar warts?

Wear sandals in public showers, keep feet clean and dry, avoid sharing shoes or socks, and treat small cuts promptly to reduce infection risk.

When should I see a doctor for plantar warts?

If a wart is painful, spreading, or not responding to over-the-counter care, it’s time to see a specialist. Patients with diabetes or weakened immune systems should seek care immediately.

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