A Plantar Wart is a common foot condition that can be identified by a hard, painful wart found on the bottom of the foot. They can be distinguished from other warts by their appearance. Plantar Warts are usually grey or brown in color with tiny black spots inside them.

WHAT CAUSES PLANTAR WARTS?

Plantar Warts are caused by the HPV virus (Human Papillomavirus) entering the body through scrapes or cuts and then travelling to other parts of the body.

HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE PLANTAR WARTS?

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF PLANTAR WARTS?

The most common symptom for Plantar Warts is a wart growing on either the heel of the foot or ball of the foot. You will usually experience pain localized around the wart when walking or putting pressure on the wart. You can tell Plantar Warts apart from regular warts by their appearance. In addition to a grey or brown color, a Plantar Wart will also have a cauliflower-like appearance.

HOW ARE PLANTAR WARTS DIAGNOSED?

Plantar Warts are generally diagnosed visually by a physician or podiatrist.

WHAT CAN I DO FROM HOME FOR PLANTAR WARTS?

WHAT CAN I DO TO PREVENT PLANTAR WARTS?

The HPV virus thrives in warm, moist environment so it is important that you protect your feet. One of the best ways to prevent Plantar Warts is to wear shower shoes when in public showers or pools. Another tip is to avoid picking or cutting your own warts. You will spread the virus and can develop even more warts.

WHAT TREATMENTS CAN I DO FROM HOME FOR PLANTAR WARTS?

Soaking your feet in warm water is one way to help relieve the pain and to start getting rid of the Plantar Warts. Wearing clean and dry socks can also help prevent these warts. There are several other at-home treatments you can use to treat your Plantar Warts which will be discussed below.

WHEN SHOULD I SEE A DOCTOR FOR PLANTAR WARTS?

You should see a doctor for Plantar Warts if it is extremely painful to walk or if the warts multiply in a cluster.

TREATMENTS THAT YOUR DOCTOR MAY RECOMMEND FOR PLANTAR WARTS

Non-Surgical:

Your doctor or podiatrist may recommend freezing the Plantar Wart off. There are other topical medications that may also be used. Some studies have also shown that applying Duct-tape over the wart daily for about 30 days may also be helpful.

Surgical:

Your surgical option for Plantar Warts includes schedule a time for your physician to cut the wart out of your foot. They will use a local anesthetic for the procedure.