While most people are more familiar with warts that develop on the hands or fingers, they can arise on the feet, too. These unwelcome guests, plantar warts, are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus and often develop on the bottom of the foot, meaning you may be tempted to put off treatment since no one can see them anyway. However, the team at Podiatry Center of New Jersey is here to let you know that addressing even the smallest of foot issues is essential in order to prevent more serious conditions from arising.

Here’s a rundown of plantar warts and why you should tackle them with treatment

Signs and symptoms of plantar warts include:

  • A small, rough, gray lesion that is most often found on the toes, ball of the foot, or heel.
  • A solid border around the lesion.
  • The appearance of tiny clotted blood vessels that show up as black dots within the wart.
  • Pain when the lesion is on a weight-bearing part of the foot.

Although plantar warts can clear up on their own, this may take time, and since the condition can often be painful, there’s usually no time to waste. Individuals may experience a change in their gait to overcompensate for the pain, leading to potential muscle or joint issues.

If over-the-counter remedies don’t seem to be working, podiatrists can assist with the following for plantar wart removal:

  • Prescription medicines (either topical or oral) that contain salicylic acid to peel away the skin cells that contain the virus.
  • Debridement (removal of damaged or infected tissue) to eliminate the hard outer layer.
  • Cryotherapy to freeze the wart off.
  • Minor surgery to remove the warts altogether.

One step you can take to prevent recurrence after removal is to avoid walking barefoot in warm, moist environments where the virus thrives, such as saunas or gyms.

Whatever stage you’re at when it comes to plantar warts, it’s always a good idea to have a podiatrist check out the issue. The team at Podiatry Center of New Jersey is always happy to help! Let’s tackle this common nuisance with the best treatment plan for you. Give us a call at (973) 925-4111 or make an appointment online today.