Plantar warts are large warts that grow in the plantar fascia on the bottom of the foot. They usually occur in the heel or ball area and are often hidden by a thick layer of callused skin that hides them from view. Usually the only indication that you have a plantar wart is a small bump in the area that is extremely painful when pressed and that causes severe pain whenever you try to walk or exercise.
Treatments for plantar warts include the following:
Laser treatment—This nearly painless process is utilized to burn off the wart and to cauterize the capillaries that bring blood to the wart, causing the virus to die.
Freezing—Liquid nitrogen freezes the wart so it can be broken off in larger pieces.
Acid treatments—Salicylic acid is applied to the wart to remove it a layer at a time.
Surgical removal—Severe cases of embedded warts that are hidden under thick skin may require surgery.
Preventing plantar warts
All warts are caused by the very common human papillomavirus (HPV). This virus is extremely prevalent in the environment and can be spread by contact. Don’t scratch your warts, because you will then spread the virus to other areas of your skin or to other people. Limit contact with microbes by protecting your feet with shower shoes or sandals when in public areas like locker rooms and showers. Keep your feet clean and dry to help decrease the type of environment that microbes love.
If you are having problems with painful plantar warts, consult our board-certified podiatrists at Foot and Ankle Center of Fort Lee, LLC. The center offers convenient locations in Fort Lee NJ, Ringwood NJ, Flushing Queens NY, Woodhaven NY, Brooklyn NY, and Forest Hills NY. Contact us at (201) 363-9844and schedule an appointment today!
