Warts Specialist

What is a plantar wart?

A plantar wart is a small, white growth with black pinpoints that develops on your skin when a particular strain of the human papillomavirus (HPV) enters your skin, and your body can't fight off the virus. Typically, HPV enters your skin through a tiny cut or nick.

Warts are most common in the weight-bearing parts of your feet because they have more contact with the ground.

Plantar warts aren’t dangerous, although HPV is highly contagious. They’ll typically go away on their own, although it can take a long time. If your wart bothers you, you can try at-home remedies or contact the team at Rocky Mountain Foot and Ankle Center for help.

What are the risk factors for getting a plantar wart?

The strains of HPV that cause plantar warts thrive in warm, moist environments, so the most common places you could pick up the virus are public pools or showers, where you’re also more likely to walk barefoot.

Children and teenagers are more likely to get plantar warts because they’re less likely to wear shower or pool shoes. Your risk also increases if your immune system is compromised or if you’ve had plantar warts before.

How are warts treated?

Most of the time, plantar warts eventually go away on their own. Most home remedies or even treatments that you purchase in a drugstore might not have much effect.

At Rocky Mountain Foot and Ankle Center, your podiatrist can use various methods to remove your wart including freezing (cryotherapy or liquid nitrogen), or with surgery.

You can reduce your risk of contracting plantar warts by avoiding contact with them, including your own. Wash your hands thoroughly after touching your wart, and don’t use the same tools on your healthy skin as you do on your wart. You can also keep your feet clean and dry and always wear clean socks and shoes.

When should I see a podiatrist about a plantar wart?

If you’re bothered by your plantar wart, either aesthetically or because it’s uncomfortable, make an appointment with your podiatrist.

Also, if you have diabetes, HIV, or other health condition, you should have your wart treated professionally. If your wart bleeds, changes shape or color, or if it multiplies, get professional treatment.

Call or schedule an appointment online today.