What are plantar warts and how do they develop. What are the common symptoms of plantar warts. How can plantar warts be treated effectively. Are there any home remedies for plantar warts. When should you see a doctor for plantar warts. How long does it take to treat plantar warts. Can plantar warts be prevented.

Understanding Plantar Warts: A Common Foot Condition

Plantar warts, also known as verrucas, are a widespread foot condition that affects many individuals, particularly children. These warts appear on the bottom of the feet and are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). While some plantar warts may resolve on their own, others require treatment to alleviate discomfort and prevent spreading.

Are plantar warts contagious? Indeed, they are. The virus responsible for plantar warts thrives in warm, moist environments such as locker room floors and swimming pool areas. Direct contact with contaminated surfaces can lead to transmission, especially if there are small cuts or cracks in the skin.

Locations of Plantar Warts

Where do plantar warts typically appear? While these lesions can develop anywhere on the foot, they are most commonly found on the underside of the toes or the heel. In some cases, plantar warts may grow inward, beneath the skin’s surface, resembling a callus. If you’re unsure whether you have a plantar wart or a callus, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

Identifying Plantar Wart Symptoms

How can you recognize a plantar wart? The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons outlines several key symptoms to watch for:

• Pain or tenderness when applying pressure to the foot while walking
• Thickened skin on the bottom of the foot
• Tiny black dots on the foot (dried blood in capillaries)
• White or skin-colored lesions on the bottom of the foot

Do plantar warts always cause pain? Not necessarily. While many people experience discomfort, especially when walking or standing, some individuals may have painless plantar warts. However, pain is often one of the first noticeable symptoms that prompts individuals to seek treatment.

Treatment Options for Plantar Warts

How can plantar warts be treated effectively? There are several treatment options available, ranging from at-home remedies to medical interventions. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the wart and individual preferences.

Over-the-Counter Treatments

What is the most common over-the-counter treatment for plantar warts? Salicylic acid is widely used and available in various forms, including liquids, creams, sticks, and cotton pads. This treatment works by gradually “burning” off the wart tissue. To use salicylic acid effectively:

1. Apply the medication as directed on the packaging
2. Continue treatment for approximately 12 weeks
3. Be consistent with applications for best results

Is salicylic acid as effective as professional treatments? A small review from 2019 suggests that salicylic acid treatment can be just as effective as cryotherapy performed by a doctor. However, individual results may vary, and some cases may require professional intervention.

Professional Medical Treatments

When should you consider professional treatment for plantar warts? If your wart is deep, painful, or recurrent, it’s advisable to consult a doctor. Medical professionals can offer several treatment options:

• Cryotherapy: Freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen
• Curettage: Surgically removing the wart
• Topical medications: Prescription-strength treatments applied directly to the wart
• Laser therapy: Using lasers to destroy the blood vessels feeding the wart

How effective are professional treatments? While success rates vary, many individuals find relief through these methods. Doctors may combine different treatments, such as cryotherapy with salicylic acid, to enhance effectiveness.

The Role of HPV in Plantar Wart Development

What causes plantar warts to develop? Plantar warts are caused by specific strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). This group of viruses can affect various parts of the body, but only those on the feet are classified as plantar warts.

How does HPV enter the body to cause plantar warts? The virus typically finds its way into the body through small cuts, scrapes, or weak spots in the skin. Once inside, it causes an overgrowth of keratin, a protein found in the top layer of skin, resulting in the formation of a wart.

Risk Factors for Plantar Warts

Who is most susceptible to developing plantar warts? While anyone can develop these lesions, certain factors may increase the risk:

• Weakened immune system
• Frequent exposure to moist environments (e.g., public pools, locker rooms)
• Walking barefoot in public areas
• Having cuts or abrasions on the feet
• Previous history of plantar warts

When to Seek Medical Attention for Plantar Warts

How do you know when it’s time to see a doctor for a plantar wart? While many cases can be managed at home, certain situations warrant professional medical attention:

• The wart is causing significant pain
• The lesion is spreading or multiplying
• You’re unsure if the growth is a wart or another skin condition
• You have diabetes or a weakened immune system
• Home treatments have been ineffective after several weeks

What can you expect during a medical consultation for plantar warts? A healthcare professional will examine the affected area and may use a dermoscope to get a closer look at the skin’s surface. They’ll assess the extent of the wart growth, which can be challenging to determine visually since warts can grow beneath the skin.

The Importance of Proper Diagnosis and Treatment

Why is it crucial to get a proper diagnosis for plantar warts? Accurate diagnosis ensures appropriate treatment and helps prevent potential complications. A healthcare provider can differentiate between plantar warts and other foot conditions that may require different approaches.

What are the risks of self-diagnosis and treatment? Attempting to remove a plantar wart without professional guidance can lead to complications such as:

• Infection
• Scarring
• Damage to healthy skin tissue
• Spread of the virus to other areas

Is it safe to cut off a plantar wart at home? Absolutely not. Never attempt to cut off a plantar wart yourself, as this can lead to serious injury, infection, and spreading of the virus.

Treatment Duration and Expectations

How long does it typically take to treat plantar warts? The duration of treatment can vary depending on the method used and the individual case. Here’s a general timeline for common treatments:

• Salicylic acid: Approximately 12 weeks of consistent application
• Cryotherapy: Usually requires 2-3 visits to the doctor
• Laser therapy: May be effective in 1-3 treatments

Why is consistency important in plantar wart treatment? Plantar warts can be stubborn and have a tendency to recur. Following your treatment plan diligently increases the chances of successful elimination and reduces the risk of recurrence.

Post-Treatment Care

What should you do after professional treatment for plantar warts? If you’ve undergone a medical procedure, such as having the wart surgically removed, follow these guidelines:

1. Stay off your foot for about a day
2. Keep the area covered with a clean bandage
3. Avoid putting pressure on the treated area
4. Follow any specific aftercare instructions provided by your healthcare provider

Prevention Strategies for Plantar Warts

Can plantar warts be prevented? While it’s not always possible to prevent exposure to HPV, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing plantar warts:

• Wear flip-flops or water shoes in public showers, locker rooms, and around swimming pools
• Keep your feet clean and dry
• Avoid walking barefoot in public areas
• Don’t share shoes, socks, or towels with others
• Treat any cuts or abrasions on your feet promptly
• Maintain a strong immune system through a healthy lifestyle

How effective are these prevention methods? While these strategies can significantly reduce your risk, they don’t guarantee complete protection. However, incorporating these habits into your routine can help minimize the chances of contracting HPV and developing plantar warts.

Addressing Recurrent Plantar Warts

What should you do if plantar warts keep coming back? If you experience recurrent plantar warts, consult your healthcare provider. They may recommend:

• A different treatment approach or combination of treatments
• Investigation of potential underlying factors, such as immune system issues
• Preventive measures to reduce the risk of future outbreaks

Is it possible to develop immunity to the HPV strains that cause plantar warts? While some individuals may develop a degree of immunity over time, it’s not guaranteed. Continuing to practice good foot hygiene and taking preventive measures remains important, even if you’ve successfully treated plantar warts in the past.

Debunking Myths About Plantar Wart Treatments

Are home remedies effective for treating plantar warts? While many home remedies circulate on the internet, most lack scientific evidence to support their effectiveness. Some popular but unproven treatments include:

• Apple cider vinegar
• Duct tape
• Essential oils
• Banana peels

Why should you be cautious about untested remedies? Using unproven treatments can potentially cause skin irritation, delay proper treatment, or even worsen the condition. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before trying any alternative treatments.

The Role of Immune System in Wart Resolution

Can a strong immune system help fight off plantar warts? Indeed, the body’s immune system plays a crucial role in combating the HPV virus responsible for plantar warts. Some individuals with robust immune systems may naturally clear the virus over time, leading to the spontaneous disappearance of warts.

How can you support your immune system to help fight plantar warts? While a healthy immune system doesn’t guarantee wart prevention or resolution, you can support your body’s natural defenses by:

• Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• Getting regular exercise
• Ensuring adequate sleep
• Managing stress levels
• Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption

Remember, while a healthy lifestyle can support your immune function, it should not replace proper medical treatment for plantar warts when necessary.

The Impact of Plantar Warts on Daily Life

How do plantar warts affect everyday activities? Depending on their location and severity, plantar warts can significantly impact daily life:

• Pain or discomfort while walking or standing
• Difficulty participating in sports or exercise
• Embarrassment about the appearance of feet
• Concerns about spreading the virus to others

What strategies can help manage discomfort from plantar warts? While undergoing treatment, you can take steps to minimize discomfort:

1. Use cushioned insoles or pads to reduce pressure on the affected area
2. Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes
3. Apply moleskin around the wart to protect surrounding skin
4. Consider over-the-counter pain relievers if recommended by your healthcare provider

By understanding plantar warts and taking appropriate action, you can effectively manage this common foot condition and maintain optimal foot health. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific situation.

What is it, Symptoms, Treatment, and More

Some plantar warts will go away naturally. Others may require at-home or medical treatments, such as applying salicylic acid to “burn” off the wart, or liquid nitrogen to “freeze” off the wart.

Plantar warts are warts that affect the bottom of the feet. They are very common, especially in children.

A plantar wart, sometimes called a verruca, is typically associated with the human papillomavirus (HPV) according to research from 2020. HPV causes a buildup of the protein keratin on the skin, which can result in warts.

HPV thrives in warm, moist places, such as locker room floors and around swimming pools. Those little puddles on the surface of pool tiles are a breeding ground for HPV.

The virus is transmitted by direct contact and may be picked up more easily if you have an opening or crack in your skin.

While plantar warts can appear anywhere on the foot, they appear most often on the bottom of the foot, according to 2019 research. They usually show up on the underside of your toes or your heel.

Occasionally, plantar warts grow inward, below the surface of the skin, and may look like a callus. A healthcare professional can help you determine whether your hard spot is a plantar wart or a callus.

Plantar warts can be painful. One of the first symptoms you may notice is pain or tenderness when putting pressure on your foot while walking.

According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, other symptoms of a plantar wart include:

• thickened skin on the bottom of your foot
• tiny black dots on your foot, which are actually dried blood stuck in the capillaries in and around the wart
• white or skin-colored lesions on the bottom of your foot

In some cases, a plantar wart will resolve naturally. Other cases may require treatment. You can treat a plantar wart a few different ways, either by seeing a doctor or by treating the wart at home.

Treatments include:

• salicylic acid, which can help “burn” off the wart and comes in forms such as a liquid, cream, stick, or embedded on cotton pads
• cryotreatment, which can be used to “freeze” off the wart
• curettage, which involves cutting out the wart
• medication applied directly to the wart
• laser therapy to burn off the blood vessels that feed the wart

Salicylic acid and liquid nitrogen are the most common treatments. Both require multiple treatments over several weeks to get rid of the wart or warts.

Salicylic acid is available over the counter. You can use it at home. Follow the directions on the packaging, and expect to apply the medication for approximately 12 weeks.

One small review from 2019 found that treating a plantar wart with salicylic acid was just as effective as cryotreatment by a doctor.

If your wart is deep or if it returns, you may need to see a doctor. Your doctor may combine different treatments, such as cryotherapy with salicylic acid, for more effective results.

Plantar warts are caused by HPV, which is a group of viruses that can affect your skin.

HPV can cause warts on other parts of your body, but only the warts on your feet are classified as plantar warts.

In individuals with plantar warts, HPV has found a way into the body via a cut or scrape on the skin. People with a weakened immune system may be more susceptible to developing plantar warts.

If you suspect you have a plantar wart, you should check in with a doctor, since it can be hard to tell how much the wart has grown beneath the skin. You should definitely see a doctor if the wart is causing you pain or spreading to another location.

A doctor can help you determine which treatment is best for you based on how advanced the wart is. If the wart has returned, for example, your doctor might choose a different combination treatment to ensure its removal.

Once your doctor has diagnosed your plantar wart, they will recommend removal methods such as salicylic acid or cryotreatment.

It’s important to get a doctor’s advice before trying to remove the wart. Doing so without input from a physician could result in damage to your foot. Never try to remove a plantar wart by cutting it off yourself.

While there are home remedies floating around on the internet that may involve things like essential oils or apple cider vinegar, most of these treatments have not been proven and could end up causing more discomfort.

Most treatments for plantar warts take several weeks. The most important thing to remember when treating a wart is consistency.

Plantar warts can be difficult to eliminate and have a tendency to return, so be sure to follow your treatment plan carefully.

Cryotherapy usually requires two to three trips to the doctor for liquid nitrogen therapy. Laser therapy might work in one to three treatments.

If you’ve had your wart cut off by a doctor, stay off your foot for about a day. Keep the area covered with a bandage, and avoid putting pressure on the wart site.

To help prevent a plantar wart, consider the following tips:

• Always cover your feet in shared community spaces, such as pools, locker rooms, or dorms.
• If you are under 26 years old, ask your doctor about receiving the HPV vaccine. It may help prevent warts, though more research is needed.
• If you have a wart, change your shoes and socks daily.
• Keep the wart covered, and wash your hands frequently to avoid spreading plantar warts to other people.

Plantar warts are common and treatable. There’s no single treatment that’s always effective. You may be able to treat them at home, but more serious cases may require treatment at your doctor’s office.

What is it, Symptoms, Treatment, and More

Some plantar warts will go away naturally. Others may require at-home or medical treatments, such as applying salicylic acid to “burn” off the wart, or liquid nitrogen to “freeze” off the wart.

Plantar warts are warts that affect the bottom of the feet. They are very common, especially in children.

A plantar wart, sometimes called a verruca, is typically associated with the human papillomavirus (HPV) according to research from 2020. HPV causes a buildup of the protein keratin on the skin, which can result in warts.

HPV thrives in warm, moist places, such as locker room floors and around swimming pools. Those little puddles on the surface of pool tiles are a breeding ground for HPV.

The virus is transmitted by direct contact and may be picked up more easily if you have an opening or crack in your skin.

While plantar warts can appear anywhere on the foot, they appear most often on the bottom of the foot, according to 2019 research. They usually show up on the underside of your toes or your heel.

Occasionally, plantar warts grow inward, below the surface of the skin, and may look like a callus. A healthcare professional can help you determine whether your hard spot is a plantar wart or a callus.

Plantar warts can be painful. One of the first symptoms you may notice is pain or tenderness when putting pressure on your foot while walking.

According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, other symptoms of a plantar wart include:

• thickened skin on the bottom of your foot
• tiny black dots on your foot, which are actually dried blood stuck in the capillaries in and around the wart
• white or skin-colored lesions on the bottom of your foot

In some cases, a plantar wart will resolve naturally. Other cases may require treatment. You can treat a plantar wart a few different ways, either by seeing a doctor or by treating the wart at home.

Treatments include:

• salicylic acid, which can help “burn” off the wart and comes in forms such as a liquid, cream, stick, or embedded on cotton pads
• cryotreatment, which can be used to “freeze” off the wart
• curettage, which involves cutting out the wart
• medication applied directly to the wart
• laser therapy to burn off the blood vessels that feed the wart

Salicylic acid and liquid nitrogen are the most common treatments. Both require multiple treatments over several weeks to get rid of the wart or warts.

Salicylic acid is available over the counter. You can use it at home. Follow the directions on the packaging, and expect to apply the medication for approximately 12 weeks.

One small review from 2019 found that treating a plantar wart with salicylic acid was just as effective as cryotreatment by a doctor.

If your wart is deep or if it returns, you may need to see a doctor. Your doctor may combine different treatments, such as cryotherapy with salicylic acid, for more effective results.

Plantar warts are caused by HPV, which is a group of viruses that can affect your skin.

HPV can cause warts on other parts of your body, but only the warts on your feet are classified as plantar warts.

In individuals with plantar warts, HPV has found a way into the body via a cut or scrape on the skin. People with a weakened immune system may be more susceptible to developing plantar warts.

If you suspect you have a plantar wart, you should check in with a doctor, since it can be hard to tell how much the wart has grown beneath the skin. You should definitely see a doctor if the wart is causing you pain or spreading to another location.

A doctor can help you determine which treatment is best for you based on how advanced the wart is. If the wart has returned, for example, your doctor might choose a different combination treatment to ensure its removal.

Once your doctor has diagnosed your plantar wart, they will recommend removal methods such as salicylic acid or cryotreatment.

It’s important to get a doctor’s advice before trying to remove the wart. Doing so without input from a physician could result in damage to your foot. Never try to remove a plantar wart by cutting it off yourself.

While there are home remedies floating around on the internet that may involve things like essential oils or apple cider vinegar, most of these treatments have not been proven and could end up causing more discomfort.

Most treatments for plantar warts take several weeks. The most important thing to remember when treating a wart is consistency.

Plantar warts can be difficult to eliminate and have a tendency to return, so be sure to follow your treatment plan carefully.

Cryotherapy usually requires two to three trips to the doctor for liquid nitrogen therapy. Laser therapy might work in one to three treatments.

If you’ve had your wart cut off by a doctor, stay off your foot for about a day. Keep the area covered with a bandage, and avoid putting pressure on the wart site.

To help prevent a plantar wart, consider the following tips:

• Always cover your feet in shared community spaces, such as pools, locker rooms, or dorms.
• If you are under 26 years old, ask your doctor about receiving the HPV vaccine. It may help prevent warts, though more research is needed.
• If you have a wart, change your shoes and socks daily.
• Keep the wart covered, and wash your hands frequently to avoid spreading plantar warts to other people.

Plantar warts are common and treatable. There’s no single treatment that’s always effective. You may be able to treat them at home, but more serious cases may require treatment at your doctor’s office.

Plantar Wart: Causes and Treatments

Publication: 01/27/2023
Change: 01/30/2023

In recent years, more and more attention has been paid to the diagnosis and proper treatment of various skin pathologies caused by human papillomaviruses (HPV). One of the manifestations of HPV can be foot spikes, also known as plantar warts. Such formations cause physical discomfort due to their inconvenient location.

Complete eradication of human papillomavirus is not possible. However, it is possible to achieve a long-term remission and get rid of the external manifestations of the disease. In particular, there are a number of effective methods for removing plantar warts that allow you to remove formations without the risk of recurrence.

Author:

Ibraev Anatoly Tomasovich

Head of the Department of Cosmetology and Laser Technologies. Dermatologist-cosmetologist
Work experience: 16 years

Important!

The information in this article should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. For staging
correct diagnosis and treatment should always consult a doctor.

What are plantar warts?

Papillomaviruses are a distinct family of pathogens that are tissue specific. That is, they can affect a certain type of tissue characteristic of their localization. Some of the HPV varieties are pathogenic for humans and can affect the skin and mucous membranes. One of the main manifestations of the virus in this case is papillomatous growths, or warts.

Such neoplasms occur in about 12% of adults and in about 20% of school-age children. The papillomavirus can be transmitted both through direct and indirect contact with an infected person, as a result of which it is considered quite contagious. More often we are talking about the contact-household method of transmission, but do not forget about the sexual and birth canal. According to rough estimates by doctors, up to 9 people can be infected with this virus.0% of the world’s population.

There are several clinical varieties of warts (most often the growths are divided into 8 types), each of which is caused by HPV of a certain type. Spines in most cases are the result of human infection with HPV type 1. Less often, formations occur due to the virus of the 3rd, 27th, 29th and 57th types.

If we talk about the clinical manifestations of such growths, then they are dense rounded plaques. They are characterized by a granular surface, formations are covered with hyperkeratotic layers. They are painful, cause serious discomfort while walking. In addition to the feet, formations often appear on the palms – they have the same shape and external parameters.

When infected with HPV types 2 and 4, mosaic warts may appear on the soles and palms. These are plaques that have formed at the site of diffuse foci of keratosis, that is, when many small and closely spaced growths merge. This type of formation causes serious discomfort. It is difficult for a person to walk, because due to pressure on the foot, neoplasms are injured.

Without special treatment, plantar warts often disappear after 2-3 years. However, it is better not to delay their removal, as they will constantly increase in size. In addition, a person in this case can become an active carrier of pathology.

Types of warts

There are different types of neoplasms caused by HPV. The most common varieties are:

• Plain (vulgar) . Such warts are localized on the back surfaces of the hands, palms, but in rare cases they can occur on the feet and face. They are flat growths (sometimes rising above the skin), which are non-inflammatory in nature. The sizes of such formations can reach 10 mm in diameter. The surface is bumpy and uneven, often there are papillae or villi. Common warts are characterized by a normal or gray hue. As a rule, they are painless.
• Flat . Such growths are localized on the cheeks, forehead or neck, less often on the limbs and torso. They have the appearance of yellowish-brown or pale pink papules. Sufficiently dense to the touch, appear in groups. They have a smooth surface.
• Plantar . Localized on the soles, but can also be found on the palms. Represent a small hyperkeratosis of the skin with clearly defined boundaries. They have a yellowish-gray tint. There is a black rod in the center. Painful on pressure.

If spines are detected, additional differential diagnosis of other warts is carried out. Often, such neoplasms have a similar appearance and localization, which will require clarification of the diagnosis.

Also, some experts distinguish specific types of spines:

• Deep . These plantar warts grow into the skin, resulting in great discomfort while walking.
• Flat . Warts of this type do not protrude above the surface of the skin, have a light pink or flesh color.
• Internal . Formations of the subcutaneous type, which are localized on the toes. They are not always visible on the surface, but grow significantly into the skin.

Symptoms of thorns

In the early stages of a plantar wart, there is excessive keratinization. This means that areas with thickened skin may appear on the feet. Gradually, the size of such seals becomes larger, and the skin becomes rougher. To the touch, such areas are quite dense.

Further, it is possible to notice that a palpable pin has appeared in the center of the seal. Outwardly, the neoplasm looks like a flat nodule. The skin in this area has a yellow or brown tint, and in the center there is a black rod.

Very often spines appear on the lower crease of the thumbs, as they are compressed during walking. At first, one growth is detected, but new formations may appear near it, which will eventually merge into a mosaic wart.

As a rule, spines have a flat structure, as they are compressed due to walking. In most cases, they cause pain, so they are almost always detected by the patient on their own.

If you have any of the following symptoms, you should consult your doctor:

• Leather seal on the soles.
• The appearance of small round formations of a dense structure.
• Painful sensations when pressure is applied to growths.
• Multiple neoplasms on the feet and hands.

Causes of

We have already noted that the main cause of plantar warts is the human papillomavirus. Its danger lies in the fact that it can enter the body in various ways and remain in a “sleeping” state for a long time. The incubation period often lasts several months or even years. As a result, a person does not even suspect about his infection.

The peculiarity of HPV is that the DNA of this virus is capable of producing viral particles in epithelial cells. In most cases, the infection is asymptomatic, as it is suppressed by cellular immunity. But with its decrease, the patient may experience a number of unpleasant symptoms. One of the most common are warts of various types.

A person may notice the appearance of spines when exposed to a number of adverse factors that reduce immunity. These include the following:

• Infectious and catarrhal diseases.
• The period of exacerbation of chronic diseases.
• Immunodeficiency pathologies.
• Various metabolic disorders.
• Sexually transmitted diseases.
• Bad habits (eg alcohol abuse).
• Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
• Wrong, unbalanced diet.
• Regular stress and lack of sleep.
• Violation of personal hygiene rules.

Plantar warts are more common in children than in adults due to an underdeveloped immune system. As a result, the child’s body cannot cope with the papilloma virus on its own, which leads to characteristic manifestations of the pathology. For the same reason, elderly people and patients with serious chronic diseases are at risk.

Many believe that plantar warts are common in people with hyperhidrosis of the feet. Excessive sweating by itself cannot lead to the appearance of spikes. However, if a person is infected with HPV, then hyperhidrosis can become one of the provoking factors and contribute to the spread of infection. Therefore, patients with this problem may have multiple growths on different parts of the feet.

Wearing tight and uncomfortable shoes can also provoke the appearance of new warts. As a result of this, the skin of the feet will be constantly injured, in addition, increased sweating may occur.

Danger of plantar warts

Spines require mandatory treatment, as they carry a serious danger. When walking, such neoplasms can be injured and deformed, as a result of which a person will sooner or later not be able to walk normally. In addition, there is a risk of secondary infection or purulent lesions of the legs.

Mechanical friction and trauma to the plantar warts often leads to various bleeding, as there are capillaries inside the formations. In addition, in such cases, the risk of infection of family members increases.

Do not forget that such growths are a manifestation of the human papillomavirus. HPV does not penetrate into the blood, so the entire infectious process proceeds without inflammation. However, the cells of the basal layer are infected. Over time, this can lead to a number of serious complications, including oncological processes.

Some types of the virus are oncogenic, so they can provoke various types of cancer. And it’s not just about skin cancer, but also damage to the cervix and other body systems. Therefore, it is not worth neglecting the treatment of such a pathology. It will not be possible to completely get rid of the human papillomavirus, but you can reduce the risk of complications and prevent its external manifestations.

Diagnosis of plantar warts

The presence of spines can be confirmed by a dermatologist during the initial consultation. In addition to examining the formations, the specialist collects the patient’s history. The following is specified:

• How long ago did the formations appear?
• Were there similar growths on other parts of the body?
• Is there any soreness or itching?
• Are there any chronic or immunodeficiency diseases?

To determine the specific type of HPV, a laboratory study of the biomaterial by PCR (polymerase chain reaction) is used. HPV infects epithelial cells, so tissue scraping from the formation is taken for diagnosis. PCR has 100% specificity and sensitivity, which allows you to accurately determine the type of virus in the body. Thanks to this, it is possible to determine its oncogenic potential and select methods of treatment.

Important!

The information in this article should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. For staging
correct diagnosis and treatment should always consult a doctor.

Removal methods

Now consider how to treat a plantar wart. There are techniques that allow you to remove any type of formation: they are divided into destructive, chemical, immunotropic. The choice of treatment tactics is individual, since it is important to take into account the localization of growths, the nature of the process (primary or recurrent), the area of ​​the lesion and other factors. A high risk of recurrence is often noted for large warts and periungual localization. In this case, the use of complex methods may be required.

Sometimes a doctor may prescribe immunomodulators and antiviral drugs for a patient. Most often, such products are used together with external treatment, since they only suppress the activity of the virus, but do not always help get rid of cosmetic defects on the skin.

In the past, salicylic acid preparations were one of the most popular treatments. This method was quite safe, but not always allowed to achieve high efficiency. In particular, in the case of plantar warts, relapses often occurred. Therefore, today such drugs are more often used to treat flat warts on the face and hands. Most often we are talking about the treatment of superficial and shallow formations. As a rule, chemicals are produced in the form of gels and ointments. They may have immunomodulatory, antiviral, antifungal, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory effects.

There are preparations based on salicylic acid with different content of active ingredients. Most of these drugs are prescription, as they require proper use and can lead to a number of side effects. For this reason, preference is given to destructive techniques aimed at the complete removal of the neoplasm. The most commonly used procedures are:

Cryodestruction . The basis of such treatment of spines is exposure to liquid nitrogen. The impact is only on the affected areas of the feet. Under the influence of low temperatures, an instantaneous death of the tissue of the growth occurs. The wart is frozen for 10-30 seconds, small formations can be removed in one session.

One of the advantages of the technique is the presence of a limited zone of necrosis, that is, during treatment, adjacent healthy tissues are not damaged. The effectiveness of cryodestruction directly depends on the chosen treatment regimen and the nature of the neoplasms.

Other benefits of cryotherapy include:

• Fast preparation and implementation.
• Painless.

The recovery process after the procedure can be quite lengthy, and healing in the area of ​​the feet often takes several weeks. Therefore, this technique is more often used to remove warts with localization between the fingers or in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe nails.

Electrocoagulation . Another possible treatment for spinal cords is electrocoagulation. This method is based on the effect of high-frequency electric current. Due to thermal energy, interstitial fluid evaporates, tissue coagulation occurs. It is possible to eliminate sufficiently voluminous formations, so the procedure is often used when mosaic warts appear on the soles.

Among the advantages of electrocoagulation are the following:

• Accessibility for patients.
• Fast preparation and implementation.
• Versatility – suitable for most types of papillomas.

However, such manipulation can be quite traumatic. In addition, it is not recommended for use in cases where a good cosmetic effect is important for the patient.

Radio wave removal . Destruction of neoplasms can be performed using exposure to radiofrequency waves. There is an incision and instant coagulation of tissues due to the radio knife. This method of treatment is good because it does not affect healthy tissues and surrounding vessels. Papillomas and plantar warts are removed from the root.

Radio waves affect the intercellular fluid in tissues. As a result, the liquid heats up, which destroys the integrity of the affected cell. This technique is quite safe and effective, but is more often used for small neoplasms. Among the advantages note the following:

• Instant vascular coagulation.
• Ability to eliminate multiple warts.
• Minimum number of contraindications.

Laser destruction . One of the most effective treatments for plantar warts is laser therapy. The essence of the procedure is to influence the affected tissues with high-intensity laser radiation. The most commonly used device is DOT CO2, which provides excellent aesthetic results.

Due to laser radiation, tissues are heated, which provokes destructive processes. At the same time, the effect is directed to the hemoglobin of erythrocytes, which are contained in the blood vessels of the wart. A necrotic area with a growth (often called a “crust”) remains at the site of exposure, which is rejected on its own after a few days.

The laser has a point effect, as a result of which there is no injury to surrounding healthy tissues. This type of treatment is often chosen for its safety and effectiveness. In addition, the rehabilitation period is quite easy and painless, which is important in the treatment of plantar neoplasms.

Other benefits of laser therapy include:

• Minimum number of contraindications.
• Removal of multiple growths.
• Versatile – can be used on any type of wart.
• Painless procedure.

In severe cases, surgical removal of the spines may be considered. This method is used for large areas of the lesion, as well as for suspicion of a malignant nature of the formation (during surgical removal, it is possible to perform a tissue biopsy). But in other cases, the technique is not used, as it is quite traumatic. During the procedure, it is often necessary to remove adjacent healthy tissue.

It is always necessary to get rid of plantar warts, regardless of their size, number and degree of pain. The appearance of the following symptoms should be especially alert:

• Pain when walking or pressing.
• Bleeding spines.
• The appearance of inclusions or discoloration of the growth.
• Enlargement of the wart in size.
• Appearance of new small formations around.

Many patients neglect medical care and prefer home treatment with various ointments and gels. Traditional medicines are also often used. These techniques are often effective in the initial appearance of warts. But after a few months, relapses of the pathology occur, multiple neoplasms of large sizes are observed. Therefore, we advise you not to self-medicate and make an appointment with a dermatologist or therapist.

Prevention of warts

Preventive measures play an important role in preventing relapse. Doctors’ recommendations are as follows:

• Wear loose, comfortable shoes . Shoes should be sized, not too tight. It is best to choose a pair of natural materials. Also, if possible, wear special orthopedic insoles if you have flat feet or other musculoskeletal disorders.
• Cure foot hyperhidrosis . Excessive sweating of the feet in most cases can be corrected with deodorants, ointments, drugs or physiotherapy. Therefore, to exclude new spikes, try to get rid of the existing problem.
• Treat injuries, scrapes and cuts on the feet . Any violation of the integrity of the skin can lead to infection with HPV. In addition, there is a risk of developing a purulent lesion. Therefore, do not forget about the use of antiseptic and wound healing agents.
• Strengthen immunity . A proper balanced diet, normal sleep, lack of stress and the rejection of bad habits will help strengthen the immune system and prevent the appearance of spinal cords. Give up a sedentary lifestyle, include regular walks and workouts in your daily routine. In addition, pay attention to your health and prevent the recurrence of chronic pathologies in time. And when the first signs of a plantar wart appear, do not neglect a visit to the doctor.

We hope that you figured out how to remove the spine and why such a neoplasm needs to be treated. If you need help in removing a wart, then you can make an appointment with our Altermed Aesthetic clinic. We will be waiting for you!

Literature

• Belyaev VV Plantar, flat, vulgar warts: modern approaches to treatment // Clinical dermatology and venereology. – 2012. – No. 10(6). – pp. 55–59.
• Khlebnikova A. N. Treatment of vulgar and plantar warts / A. N. Khlebnikova, E. V. Selezneva, O. V. Dorokhin // Bulletin of dermatology and venereology. – 2015. – T. 91, No. 1. – S. 122–128.

Other articles of the author:

• Age spots: types, causes, treatment methods
• Rehabilitation after lifting with threads Aptos
• Warts: causes and methods of their removal
• Acne on the face
• Red spots on the skin
• Rosacea
• How to remove the second chin?
• How to remove forehead wrinkles?
• How to remove nasolabial folds?

Laser removal of plantar warts on the foot

Warts on the feet are most often formed due to poor hygiene, as well as due to wearing tight uncomfortable shoes. At the first stages of development, warts most of all resemble common corns. But over time, they do not “dissolve”, but on the contrary, they only increase in size, and the upper crust turns into keratinized skin.

The most reliable plantar wart removal is with a laser. After all, an accurate cut of the affected area is performed. And most importantly, it is a short rehabilitation period. Literally within 5 days after the operation, you can return to your usual life.

Key benefits of laser plantar wart removal

Laser removal of plantar warts is performed with painkillers, so the procedure should not intimidate you. It is allowed to perform it even for children from 3 years old, although they are unlikely to develop warts.

Our clinic has already confirmed that laser removal of plantar warts has the most positive reviews. If when removing these neoplasms with nitrogen there is a risk of re-growth of the wart, then when using a laser this is virtually impossible.

It should also be noted that there are many folk methods that advise how to remove warts on the leg at home. For example, many advise using celandine. These treatment options have many disadvantages: the treatment period is very long, and a positive result is only 30 percent. In addition, some methods are very painful. And if, when a wart appears on the foot, the removal is carried out with a high-precision laser, then there can be no side effects, and the treatment procedure takes a maximum of 2 trips to the doctor (in the most advanced cases).

For the removal of plantar warts, the price varies depending on the place of compaction, its size, as well as the depth of ingrowth into the skin. To be more precise, the price is set by the “number of passes” of the laser necessary for the complete elimination of formations. It is also worth noting that the price of laser plantar wart removal is one of the lowest compared to other methods. After all, the process itself takes only about 30-60 minutes, one procedure is enough, no additional medications are required.

Laser foot wart removal does not cause burns or wounds. If a hole is obtained at the site of removal of the wart, then only a few weeks of therapeutic compresses and ointments that the doctor will prescribe for you will completely restore the skin. Scars also practically do not remain, which is not unimportant for patients.

Removal of plantar warts with a laser reviews is only positive for the reason that cauterization of third-party tissues close to the wart is not performed. And when removing a wart with nitrogen, you have to freeze a slightly larger area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe skin than the wart occupies. Otherwise, there is a risk of renewal of seals on the body.

At the moment, more and more doctors suggest performing the removal of warts by electrocoagulation. This is a relatively new method that uses electrical impulses. But there is a high risk of inflammation after the operation, and the procedure itself is not pleasant. Feelings are comparable to long-term electrolysis (removal of unwanted hair with electric current).

Sole wart removal is performed in our clinic only after a thorough examination of the affected area of ​​the skin. Our specialists determine the exact boundaries of compaction. After all, the main thing in the procedure is the cosmetic result, that is, whether there will be traces of the operation at the site of the former neoplasm.

Although, if you study the information about the removal of plantar warts, reviews show that it is with the laser method that the trace becomes completely invisible a month after the operation.

Why is it recommended to remove warts on the foot as soon as they appear?

Because there is a risk that they can be accidentally damaged when walking, when wearing uncomfortable shoes. Because of this, there is a possibility of the wart growing into a full-fledged malignant tumor, which is better known as skin cancer. And this is a threat to life. Removing a wart on the foot with a laser makes it impossible for the further development of the seal, its growth, which will protect the person from the likelihood of skin cancer.

Removal of plantar warts does not require repeated surgical intervention in the damaged area of ​​the skin. Accordingly, the healing process is much faster.

Removing a heel wart that is several years old is somewhat more difficult due to the fact that you have to destroy the root, which has settled much deeper in such a time. Only in such cases is it possible to leave a scar. But it’s better than living with the threat of melanoma.

Removal of a wart on the heel has been carried out in our clinic for many years. Our qualified team of specialists will be able to cope with any task, so you can be sure that you will receive qualified and timely assistance.

Modern technologies have allowed doctors to perform bloodless operations that do not pose a threat to the patient’s life either before or after the operation. It is laser therapy that is recognized by world clinics as the only correct method for removing warts and other seals on the body. Removing a heel wart with a laser will not create subsequent discomfort for the patient, and will not require bed rest during the rehabilitation period.