Anyone who cares about maintaining the health of their feet should be aware of plantar warts, an unsightly and uncomfortable foot condition. Plantar warts are callous-like growths on the feet that typically appear on the bottoms, or soles, of the feet. These warts are caused by the person-to-person transmission of different types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Plantar warts can range significantly in size, from small to giant cases. Children ages 12-16 are typically the most affected by this condition. Although it is true that many cases of plantar warts are painless and will eventually resolve themselves, you may have to visit a podiatrist. You should consider seeking out care from a podiatrist for your plantar warts if they begin bleeding or spreading, especially beyond your feet. You should also consider consulting with a podiatrist if they do not react positively to any self-care treatment. Upon your visit, a podiatrist will determine the best way to treat the warts, which may include cryosurgery, electrocautery, or the application of certain acids. If you have any concerns about your plantar warts, it may be best to seek out the help of a professional.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact John Horlebein, DPM from Northern Cascades Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Chelan, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.