What Are Plantar Warts?
Plantar warts, also called verrucae, are small skin growths caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). They commonly develop on the sole of the foot and may become uncomfortable when standing, walking or exercising.
Plantar warts can appear as a single lesion or in groups. They may have a rough surface with small dark dots and can sometimes be mistaken for corns or calluses. Because pressure from walking can push the wart inward, some plantar warts become painful, particularly when they occur over weight-bearing areas of the foot.
What Causes Plantar Warts?
Plantar warts are caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus enters the skin through small breaks or areas of irritation and can then cause a wart to develop.
They can spread through direct skin contact or indirectly from contaminated surfaces. Walking barefoot in shared wet areas such as communal showers, pools and change rooms may increase exposure, but not everyone who comes into contact with the virus will develop a wart. Warts can also spread from one area of the foot to another, particularly if they are picked, scratched or irritated.
How Are Plantar Warts Treated?
Treatment depends on the size, number, location and duration of the wart, as well as whether it is causing pain or spreading.
Options may include:
- reducing pressure over painful areas
- topical wart treatments
- debridement of thickened skin when appropriate
- Swift microwave therapy
- other treatment options depending on the individual case
Your podiatrist can assess the lesion, confirm whether it is a plantar wart and recommend the most suitable treatment approach.
When Should You See a Podiatrist for a Plantar Wart?
Consider seeing a podiatrist if the wart is painful, spreading, keeps returning, or is affecting walking, footwear or sport.
An assessment is also worthwhile if you are unsure whether the lesion is actually a wart, particularly if it has changed in appearance or has not responded to previous treatment.
Your podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis and discuss suitable treatment options, including whether Swift microwave therapy may be appropriate.
Book a Plantar Wart AssessmentÂ
