What are plantar warts. How are they caused. What are the symptoms of plantar warts. When should you see a doctor for plantar warts. How can plantar warts be prevented. What are the treatment options for plantar warts.

Understanding Plantar Warts: A Comprehensive Guide

Plantar warts are small, rough growths that typically appear on the weight-bearing areas of the feet, such as the balls and heels. These pesky skin lesions are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can be a source of discomfort and concern for many individuals. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, prevention methods, and treatment options for plantar warts, providing you with the knowledge you need to tackle this common foot condition.

The Root Cause: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection

Plantar warts are primarily caused by an infection with specific strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). This virus enters the skin through tiny cuts, breaks, or weak spots on the soles of the feet. Once inside, it infects the outer layer of skin, leading to the formation of warts.

Interestingly, not all HPV strains cause plantar warts. Out of the more than 100 types of HPV that exist, only a few are responsible for these foot growths. The virus thrives in warm, moist environments, which is why walking barefoot in areas like swimming pools, locker rooms, and communal showers can increase the risk of infection.

Transmission and Spread of Plantar Warts

How contagious are plantar warts? The HPV strains that cause these warts are not highly contagious, meaning they don’t spread easily through direct person-to-person contact. However, the virus can persist on surfaces and in moist environments, making indirect transmission possible.

It’s worth noting that each person’s immune system responds differently to HPV. Some individuals may come into contact with the virus but never develop warts, while others may be more susceptible. Even within the same family, reactions to the virus can vary significantly.

Recognizing the Symptoms: How to Identify Plantar Warts

Identifying plantar warts is crucial for proper management and treatment. Here are the key symptoms to look out for:

• Small, rough growths on the bottom of the foot, typically at the base of the toes, ball, or heel
• Hard, thickened skin (callus) over the wart, especially if it has grown inward
• Black pinpoints, also known as “wart seeds,” which are actually small clotted blood vessels
• Clusters of growths on the sole of the foot (mosaic warts)
• Disruption of the normal lines and ridges in the skin of your foot
• Pain or tenderness when walking or standing

In individuals with brown or Black skin, the growth may appear lighter than the surrounding unaffected skin. This difference in pigmentation can sometimes make diagnosis more challenging, highlighting the importance of a thorough examination by a healthcare professional.

When Do Plantar Warts Require Medical Attention?

While many plantar warts resolve on their own, especially in children under 12, there are situations where seeking medical advice is recommended. Consider consulting a healthcare provider if:

• The growth is bleeding, painful, or changes in shape or color
• You’ve attempted treatment, but the wart persists, multiplies, or recurs
• The pain interferes with your daily activities
• You have diabetes or reduced sensation in your feet
• You have a weakened immune system due to medications or medical conditions
• You’re unsure if the growth is indeed a wart

Risk Factors: Who’s Most Susceptible to Plantar Warts?

While anyone can develop plantar warts, certain factors may increase your risk. Understanding these risk factors can help you take appropriate preventive measures:

1. Age: Children and teenagers are more likely to develop plantar warts
2. Immune system strength: Individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk
3. Previous infections: Those who have had plantar warts before are more susceptible to recurrence
4. Barefoot exposure: Regularly walking barefoot in public areas where the virus is common increases the risk of infection
5. Foot injuries: Small cuts or abrasions on the feet can provide entry points for the virus

By being aware of these risk factors, you can take steps to minimize your chances of developing plantar warts or experiencing recurrent infections.

Prevention Strategies: Keeping Plantar Warts at Bay

Prevention is always better than cure, and this holds true for plantar warts as well. Here are some effective strategies to reduce your risk of developing these foot growths:

• Avoid direct contact with warts, including your own
• Maintain good foot hygiene by keeping your feet clean and dry
• Wear protective footwear in public areas prone to HPV contamination
• Refrain from picking at or scratching warts
• Use separate nail care tools for healthy skin and warts
• Boost your immune system through a healthy diet and lifestyle

Implementing these preventive measures can significantly reduce your chances of contracting the HPV strains responsible for plantar warts. Remember, a proactive approach to foot health is key to avoiding these troublesome growths.

Diagnosis and Treatment: Professional Approaches to Plantar Warts

When self-care methods prove ineffective or if you’re concerned about a growth on your foot, seeking professional medical advice is crucial. Healthcare providers employ various techniques to diagnose and treat plantar warts effectively.

Diagnostic Methods

How do doctors confirm the presence of plantar warts? The diagnostic process typically involves:

• Visual examination: A healthcare provider will carefully inspect the growth
• Paring: The top layer of the wart may be cut off to check for tiny clotted blood vessels
• Biopsy: In some cases, a small section of the growth may be sent to a lab for testing

Treatment Options

While many plantar warts resolve on their own, treatment can speed up the process and provide relief from symptoms. Common treatment approaches include:

1. Cryotherapy: Freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen
2. Salicylic acid: Over-the-counter or prescription-strength solutions
3. Immunotherapy: Stimulating the immune system to fight the virus
4. Laser therapy: Using focused light to destroy the wart tissue
5. Surgical removal: Excision of the wart in persistent cases

The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the size and location of the wart, the patient’s age and overall health, and previous treatment attempts. Your healthcare provider will work with you to determine the most appropriate course of action.

Living with Plantar Warts: Managing Discomfort and Preventing Spread

While undergoing treatment or waiting for plantar warts to resolve naturally, there are several steps you can take to manage discomfort and prevent the spread of the virus:

• Use cushioned insoles or pads to relieve pressure on the affected area
• Keep the wart covered with a waterproof bandage when swimming or in communal areas
• Avoid sharing towels, socks, or shoes with others
• Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces that come into contact with your feet
• Maintain good overall foot hygiene to support healing and prevent secondary infections

By adopting these practices, you can minimize the impact of plantar warts on your daily life and reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others or to other parts of your body.

Myth-busting: Separating Fact from Fiction About Plantar Warts

There are many misconceptions surrounding plantar warts, which can lead to confusion and improper management. Let’s address some common myths:

Myth: Plantar warts have roots that grow deep into the foot

Fact: Plantar warts do not have roots. The black dots often seen in warts are actually small blood vessels, not roots.

Myth: Cutting a wart will make it spread

Fact: While cutting a wart isn’t recommended, it doesn’t necessarily cause spreading. However, it can introduce bacteria and lead to infection.

Myth: Duct tape is a proven cure for plantar warts

Fact: While some people swear by the duct tape method, scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited and inconclusive.

Myth: Once you’ve had a plantar wart, you’re immune to future infections

Fact: Having a plantar wart doesn’t make you immune. You can still develop new warts from different HPV strains or reinfection with the same strain.

Understanding these facts can help you make more informed decisions about managing plantar warts and seeking appropriate treatment when necessary.

The Long-Term Outlook: What to Expect with Plantar Warts

Understanding the long-term prognosis for plantar warts can help set realistic expectations and guide treatment decisions. Here’s what you should know:

• Natural resolution: Many plantar warts will disappear on their own, especially in children
• Time frame: Resolution can take months to years, depending on individual factors
• Recurrence: Some individuals may experience recurring warts due to reinfection or persistent virus
• Complications: While rare, untreated warts can lead to pain, altered gait, and muscle or joint discomfort
• Treatment success: With proper care and treatment, most plantar warts can be effectively managed or eliminated

Remember that each case is unique, and the course of plantar warts can vary significantly from person to person. Maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider and following recommended treatments and preventive measures are key to achieving the best possible outcome.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Plantar Wart Management

The field of dermatology continues to evolve, bringing new insights and potential treatments for plantar warts. Here are some areas of ongoing research and development:

Immunotherapy Advancements

Researchers are exploring new ways to harness the body’s immune system to fight HPV infections more effectively. This includes the development of targeted immunotherapies and vaccines specific to the strains of HPV that cause plantar warts.

Photodynamic Therapy

This treatment involves applying a light-sensitive medication to the wart and then exposing it to a specific wavelength of light. Early studies show promise in treating resistant plantar warts.

Nanoparticle-based Treatments

Scientists are investigating the use of nanoparticles to deliver antiviral medications directly to infected cells, potentially improving treatment efficacy and reducing side effects.

Genetic Susceptibility Studies

Understanding why some individuals are more prone to developing plantar warts could lead to personalized prevention and treatment strategies based on genetic profiles.

As research progresses, we can expect to see more targeted and effective treatments for plantar warts in the future, offering hope to those who struggle with persistent or recurrent infections.

Holistic Approaches to Plantar Wart Management

While medical treatments are often necessary for managing plantar warts, holistic approaches can complement traditional therapies and support overall foot health. Consider incorporating these strategies into your plantar wart management plan:

Stress Reduction

Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, potentially making you more susceptible to viral infections like HPV. Implementing stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises may help support your body’s natural defenses against warts.

Nutritional Support

A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C and zinc, can help boost your immune system. Some studies suggest that certain dietary supplements may have antiviral properties, although more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness against plantar warts specifically.

Essential Oils

Some essential oils, such as tea tree oil and thuja oil, have been traditionally used for their potential antiviral properties. While scientific evidence is limited, some individuals report success in using these oils topically on plantar warts. Always dilute essential oils properly and consult with a healthcare provider before use, especially if you have sensitive skin or other health conditions.

Foot Soaks

Regular foot soaks in warm water with added Epsom salts or apple cider vinegar may help soften the skin around the wart, making it more receptive to topical treatments. Additionally, these soaks can promote overall foot hygiene and comfort.

Mind-Body Techniques

Some practitioners suggest visualization or hypnotherapy techniques to stimulate the immune system’s response to plantar warts. While not scientifically proven, these methods may complement other treatments and provide psychological support during the healing process.

Remember that while holistic approaches can be beneficial, they should not replace professional medical advice or prescribed treatments. Always consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating new therapies into your plantar wart management plan.

The Psychological Impact of Plantar Warts

While plantar warts are primarily a physical condition, their presence can have significant psychological effects on individuals. Understanding and addressing these emotional aspects is crucial for comprehensive care.

Self-Consciousness and Social Anxiety

Many people with plantar warts feel self-conscious about their feet, especially in situations where they might be barefoot or wearing open-toed shoes. This can lead to social anxiety and avoidance of activities like swimming or beach outings.

Frustration with Persistent or Recurrent Warts

For individuals dealing with stubborn or recurring plantar warts, frustration and disappointment can set in, particularly if multiple treatments have been unsuccessful. This emotional toll can impact overall well-being and quality of life.

Pain-Related Stress

The discomfort associated with plantar warts, especially when walking or standing for long periods, can lead to chronic stress and irritability. This physical pain can have a ripple effect on mood and daily functioning.

Coping Strategies

To address the psychological impact of plantar warts, consider the following strategies:

• Educate yourself about the condition to reduce anxiety and feel more in control
• Join support groups or online communities to connect with others facing similar challenges
• Practice self-care and stress-reduction techniques to maintain overall emotional well-being
• Communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your concerns and feelings
• Focus on the temporary nature of plantar warts and maintain a positive outlook on treatment outcomes

By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of plantar warts, individuals can navigate this condition with greater resilience and maintain a better quality of life throughout the treatment process.

Plantar warts | Sparrow

Overview

Plantar warts are small, rough growths on the feet. They usually show up on the balls and heels of the feet, the areas that bear the most pressure. This pressure may also cause a wart to grow inward beneath a hard, thick layer of skin (callus).

Plantar warts are caused by HPV. This virus enters through tiny cuts or breaks on the bottom of the feet.

Most plantar warts aren’t a serious health concern and often go away without treatment, especially in children under 12. To get rid of them sooner, you can try self-care treatments or see your health care provider.

Symptoms

Plantar wart signs and symptoms include:

• A small, rough growth on the bottom of your foot, usually at the base of the toes or on the ball or heel
• On brown and Black skin, the growth may be lighter than unaffected skin
• Hard, thickened skin (callus) over a spot on the skin, where a wart has grown inward
• Black pinpoints, which are small clotted blood vessels commonly called wart seeds
• A cluster of growths on the sole of the foot (mosaic warts)
• A growth that interrupts the normal lines and ridges in the skin of your foot
• Pain or tenderness when walking or standing

When to see a doctor

See your health care provider for the growth on your foot if:

• The growth is bleeding, painful or changes in shape or color
• You’ve tried treating the wart, but it persists, multiplies or comes back after clearing for a time (recurs)
• Your pain interferes with your activities
• You also have diabetes or poor feeling in your feet
• You also have a weak immune system because of immune-suppressing drugs, HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders
• You aren’t sure if the growth is a wart

Causes

Plantar warts are caused by an infection with HPV in the outer layer of skin on the soles of the feet. The warts develop when the virus enters through tiny cuts, breaks or weak spots on the bottom of the foot. If left untreated, warts can last from a few months to 2 years in children, and several years in in adults.

HPV is very common, and more than 100 kinds of the virus exist. But only a few of them cause warts on the feet. Other types of HPV are more likely to cause warts on other areas of your skin or on mucous membranes.

Transmission of the virus

Each person’s immune system responds differently to HPV. Not everyone who comes in contact with it develops warts. Even people in the same family react to the virus differently.

The HPV strains that cause plantar warts aren’t highly contagious. So the virus isn’t easily spread by direct contact from one person to another. But it thrives in warm, moist places, so you might get the virus by walking barefoot around swimming pools or locker rooms. If the virus spreads from the first site of infection, more warts may grow.

Risk factors

Anyone can develop plantar warts, but this type of wart is more likely to affect:

• Children and teenagers
• People with weak immune systems
• People who have had plantar warts before
• People who walk barefoot in areas where a wart-causing virus is common, such as locker rooms and swimming pools

Complications

When plantar warts cause pain, you may alter your normal posture or gait — perhaps without realizing it. Eventually, this change in how you stand, walk or run can cause muscle or joint discomfort.

Prevention

To help prevent plantar warts:

• Avoid direct contact with warts. This includes your own warts. Wash your hands carefully after touching a wart.
• Keep your feet clean and dry.
• Wear sandals or other foot protection when walking around swimming pools, in locker rooms or in gym showers.
• Don’t pick at or scratch warts.
• When using an emery board, pumice stone or nail clipper on your warts, choose one that you don’t use on your healthy skin and nails.

Diagnosis

A health care provider usually diagnoses a plantar wart by looking at it or cutting off the top layer with a scalpel and checking for dots. The dots are tiny clotted blood vessels. Or your health care provider might cut off a small section of the growth and send it to a lab for testing.

Treatment

Most plantar warts are harmless and go away without treatment, though it may take a year or two in children, and even longer in adults. If you want to get rid of warts sooner, and self-care approaches haven’t helped, talk with your health care provider. Using one or more of the following treatments may help:

• Freezing medicine (cryotherapy). Cryotherapy is done in a clinic and involves applying liquid nitrogen to the wart, either with a spray or a cotton swab. This method can be painful, so your health care provider may numb the area first.

  The freezing causes a blister to form around your wart, and the dead tissue sloughs off within a week or so. Cryotherapy may also stimulate your immune system to fight viral warts. You may need to return to the clinic for repeat treatments every 2 to 3 weeks until the wart disappears.

  Possible side effects of cryotherapy are pain, blisters and permanent changes in skin color (hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation), particularly in people with brown or Black skin.

• Stronger peeling medicine (salicylic acid). Prescription-strength wart medications with salicylic acid work by removing a wart a layer at a time. They may also boost your immune system’s ability to fight the wart.

  Your health care provider will likely suggest you apply the medicine regularly at home, followed by occasional office visits. It might take weeks to remove the wart using this method.

Surgical or other procedures

If salicylic acid and freezing medicine don’t work, your health care provider may suggest one or more of the following treatments:

• Minor surgery. Your health care provider cuts away the wart or destroys it by using an electric needle (electrodesiccation and curettage). This method can be painful, so your health care provider will numb your skin first. Because surgery has a risk of scarring, it’s not often used to treat plantar warts unless other treatments have failed. A scar on the sole of the foot can be painful for years.
• Blistering medicine. Your health care provider applies cantharidin, which causes a blister under the wart. You may need to return to the clinic in about a week to have the dead wart clipped off.
• Immune therapy. This method uses medications or solutions to stimulate your immune system to fight viral warts. Your health care provider may inject your warts with a foreign substance (antigen) or apply a solution or cream to the warts.
• Laser treatment. Pulsed-dye laser treatment burns closed (cauterizes) tiny blood vessels. The infected tissue eventually dies, and the wart falls off. This method needs to be repeated every 2 to 4 weeks. Your health care provider will likely numb your skin first.
• Vaccine. HPV vaccine has been used with success to treat warts even though this vaccine is not specifically targeted toward the wart viruses that cause plantar warts.

If a plantar wart goes away after treatment and another wart grows, it could be because the area was exposed again to HPV.

Lifestyle and home remedies

Many people have removed warts with these self-care tips:

• Peeling medicine (salicylic acid). Nonprescription wart removal products are sold as a patch, gel or liquid. You’ll likely be instructed to wash the site, soak it in warm water, and gently remove the top layer of softened skin with a pumice stone or emery board. Then after the skin has dried, you apply the solution or patch. Patches are often changed every 24 to 48 hours. Liquid products are used daily. It might take weeks to remove the wart using this method.
• Freezing medicine (cryotherapy). Nonprescription medicines that freeze the wart include Compound W Freeze Off and Dr. Scholl’s Freeze Away. The Food and Drug Administration cautions that some wart removers are flammable and shouldn’t be used around fire, flame, heat sources (such as curling irons) and lit cigarettes.
• Duct tape. Using duct tape to remove warts is a harmless but unproven approach. To try it, cover the wart with silver duct tape, changing it every few days. Between applications, soak the wart and gently remove dead tissue with a pumice stone or emery board. Then leave the wart open to the air to dry for a few hours before covering it with tape again.

In general, no matter which treatment you try, do these two things:

• Cover the wart to help prevent it from spreading to other parts of the body or to other people.
• Wash your hands after touching the wart.

If a plantar wart goes away after treatment and another wart grows, it could be because the area was exposed again to HPV.

Preparing for an appointment

You’ll likely start by seeing your primary care provider, who may then refer you to a specialist in disorders of the skin (dermatologist) or feet (podiatrist). The following tips can help you prepare for your appointment.

Prevention

What you can do

Bring a list of all medications you take regularly — including nonprescription medications and dietary supplements — and the daily dosage of each.

You may also want to list questions for your health care provider, such as:

• If I have a plantar wart, can I start with at-home care?
• If I use a home treatment, under what conditions should I call you?
• If the first treatment doesn’t work, what will we try next?
• If the growth isn’t a plantar wart, what tests do you need to do?
• How long will it take to get results?
• How can I prevent warts?

Preparing for an appointment

What to expect from your doctor

Your health care provider may ask you questions such as:

• When did you first notice the wart?
• Has it changed in size, color or shape?
• Is your condition painful?
• Have you had warts before?
• Do you have diabetes or poor sensation in your feet?
• Do you have any condition or take any medication that has weakened your ability to fight disease (immune response)?
• Have you tried any home remedies? If so, how long have you used them and have they helped?
• Do you use a swimming pool or locker room — places that can harbor wart-causing viruses?

What you can do in the meantime

If you’re sure you have a plantar wart, you may try nonprescription remedies or alternative medicine approaches. But talk with your health care provider before trying self-care treatments if you have:

• Diabetes
• Poor sensation in your feet
• Weakened immunity

If pressure on the wart causes pain, try wearing well-cushioned shoes, such as athletic shoes that evenly support the sole and relieve some of the pressure. Avoid wearing uncomfortable shoes.

Elliott M. Perel, DPM, FACFAS: Podiatrist

Warts are noncancerous growths. They form in the epidermis (top layer of your skin) due to an infection with some strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). They’re named by where they’re located on the body — on the hands, they’re called palmar warts, and on the soles of the feet, they’re called plantar warts.

Plantar warts form when the virus penetrates the skin on the soles of your feet through small cuts that could come from any number of sources. Your weight places almost continual pressure on the area, causing the skin to become thick and callused. Plantar warts aren’t inherently harmful, but they may cause some irritation or pain, or some minor bleeding.

Plantar warts become a medical problem if they cause you pain, because that could make you shift the way you stand and walk, leading to complications with your body mechanics.

At Monroe Foot & Ankle Care in Jamesburg, New Jersey, podiatric surgeon Dr. Elliott Perel and his team understand that while plantar warts aren’t generally a medical problem, they can make you feel uncomfortable, which is why they offer a variety of treatments.

How is the virus transmitted?

The HPV strains that cause plantar warts aren’t the same ones that cause genital warts. They aren’t highly contagious or easily transmissible. In fact, some people who come in contact with HPV don’t go on to develop warts.

HPV thrives in warm, moist environments — swimming pools and locker rooms are ideal for it. If you walk around these areas barefoot, you’re more at risk of contracting the virus. The wart forms where the virus enters the skin, but it can spread to other sites, creating new warts as it goes.

Plantar warts are most common in:

• Children and teenagers
• People with weakened immune systems
• People who’ve had previous plantar warts
• People who walk without foot protection in locker rooms

What do plantar warts look and feel like?

If you have a plantar wart, you’ll probably notice:

• A small, fleshy, and rough growth on the sole of your foot, often at the heel or the base of the toes and forefoot
• A growth crossing the normal ridges and lines in the skin
• A hard callus over a well-defined “spot,” where the wart has grown into the foot
• Black spots: small, clotted blood vessels often called “wart seeds”
• Pain or tenderness when standing or walking

How do you treat plantar warts?

A lot of warts clear up by themselves, usually within a two-year period. However, if you’re experiencing pain or irritation, you may want to have the warts removed.

There are a number of home remedies for wart removal, including duct tape, banana peels, and an OTC freezing spray to kill wart tissue. All are only moderately successful, and they take months to see any significant reduction.

You’ll have much more success with an in-office doctor’s treatment. Dr. Perel uses:

Salicylic acid and trichloroacetic acid

The doctor applies prescription-strength salicylic acid to the wart, dissolving it layer by layer. The acid can also trigger your body’s immune system to fight the underlying infection. This method often requires a series of treatments. If you don’t respond after the series, Dr. Perel may use the stronger trichloroacetic acid.

Cryotherapy

This technique removes warts by freezing them off with liquid nitrogen, which destroys the wart’s structure. Dr. Perel applies it gently to just the wart tissue, which will blister and then slough off in about a week. Combining cryotherapy with salicylic acid is even more effective, but you still may require several treatments.

Lasers

A beam of laser energy burns a wart’s blood vessels. Without these to provide nutrition, the wart dies and falls off.

Minor surgery

Dr. Perel uses a scalpel to cut away the growth, reducing your risk for developing new plantar warts. Any scars from the procedure fade away with time.

If you’ve got warts on your feet and want them removed, your best bet is to come in and see Dr. Perel. Give the office a call at 732-521-6166, or schedule your appointment online today.

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Warts on the feet why they occur and how to treat

Warts on the feet are common. Approximately 30% of patients come to the dermatologist with this problem.

And only a few know what to do with these growths.

These warts look like a round skin nodule that rises slightly above the skin. But sometimes they look different. We will talk about varieties later.

Most warts on the foot appear on the heel. Less often in other parts. While we are walking, our weight presses on the soles and then the neoplasms do not grow outward, but inside the leg. From above, they are protected by a dense and hard layer of skin.

Are warts on the feet dangerous?

These growths are not comparable to cancerous growths and usually do not threaten health. Disappear even without treatment.

Of course, they don’t disappear in one day or a week. In most cases, warts stay on the feet for at least 14 days, and only then the immune system eliminates the cause of their appearance.

Unfortunately, sometimes you cannot do without the help of a doctor. Make an appointment with a dermatologist if:

• The growths hurt, bleed or change
• New warts appear
• Neoplasms interfere with daily life
• Immunity weakened due to drugs or diseases

In such situations, the growths rarely disappear on their own, and medical or surgical treatment is necessary.

Why?

To answer, it is important to understand how neoplasms arise.

Causes of foot warts

Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus or HPV. Scientists know over 100 types of this virus.

It has different effects on a person. Most types are harmless – in the worst case scenario, they will grow warts.

But there are also dangerous types of HPV. In rare cases, they provoke the development of cancer of the genital organs.

Causes of warts on the feet – HPV types 1, 2, 4, 27 and 57. The virus enters through the skin. Usually through small cuts, scrapes and other damage.

Under the influence of the virus, skin cells mutate and turn into neoplasms.

This does not happen overnight. The HPV incubation period can last up to six months, and even then it affects the skin in different ways. Depends on immunity. In some family members, after infection, warts will grow quickly, while in others they will never appear.

Fortunately, plantar neoplasms are not very contagious, but at the same time they remain a threat without direct contact. The virus survives in warm and humid environments. That is, on the floor next to the pool or in the common locker rooms. So in these rooms, doctors recommend wearing slippers or other shoes.

Plantar warts are especially common in people:

• Children and adolescents
• Weak immune system
• HPV reinfected

They also appear due to:

• Wearing tight and uncomfortable shoes
• Using someone else’s socks or tights
• Heavy sweating on the feet

External signs of infection are not always the same – several varieties are known.

What warts on the feet look like

Not all growths on the soles are identical. Therefore, sometimes patients confuse warts with other growths and this interferes with effective treatment.

Fortunately, signs of viral warts on the foot are easy to remember:

• Small hard growths, usually at the base of the toes or on the heel
• Dark spots on the skin – blood-filled superficial vessels
• Rough hardened skin around a prominent spot from which the wart grows deep into the leg

Other symptoms are also characteristic of these formations. For example, they cause pain and irritation when walking, which often changes the gait. This is how the body fights against the discomfort of warts. Sometimes patients themselves do not notice these changes.

These growths are recommended to be removed.

Why you need to get rid of warts

Up to 90% of neoplasms on the soles do not affect health and life. There were just a few bumps. And after a couple of months they disappeared. Sometimes people do not have time to visit a doctor, and the warts are already disappearing, without medication and therapy. And no problems with discomfort.

Unfortunately, not everyone is so lucky.

The remaining 10% of growths can make life extremely difficult – sometimes they cause severe pain when walking and limit mobility.

How to get rid of a wart on the foot ?

The first step is an examination by a dermatologist. The doctor makes the diagnosis easily.

Treatment is prescribed if education:

• Constantly growing
• Causes other neoplasms
• Hurts a lot
• Prevents normal walking

Patients usually like to fight warts with drugs and avoid surgery.

Ask a dermatologist about topical remedies for plantar growths. There are many such medicines. They gradually destroy the cells of neoplasms. But there is no 100% guarantee.

Medical treatment of warts is very slow and sometimes takes months to remove. Worse yet, the neoplasms can come back.

Yes, this does not always happen, but such cases are not uncommon. Therefore, for the effective treatment of viral warts on the foot, we recommend using one of the surgical methods.

Therapy options are many.

How to eliminate warts on the foot and prevent their appearance

Let’s start with an attack on neoplasms.

Doctors remove warts on the foot with operations:

• Laser coagulation

The doctor burns the altered skin cells with a powerful beam of light and at the same time bakes neighboring vessels. The procedure is bloodless and painless. Sometimes it is impossible to remove all the growth in one session and you need to visit the doctor several times to completely clean the skin. Then the wound on the skin heals for at least a couple of weeks.

• Cryodestruction

Dermatologist freezes wart tissue with liquid nitrogen. The growth completely freezes. Gradually, the tissues die off, and only the wound remains – after two weeks it also disappears. This method has few complications. However, the procedure is prohibited for women during pregnancy and for people with diabetes.

• Surgical excision

The doctor uses local anesthesia and cuts out the wart with a scalpel. Together with the wart, it also removes a small layer of healthy skin – this ensures the complete elimination of the neoplasm. The wound remains. Stitches are placed on it, and after treatment there is always a scar. Due to cosmetic flaws, this method is not very popular.

• Immunotherapy

The doctor prescribes drugs to strengthen the immune system – they help the body fight the virus and the growths on the skin disappear. Sometimes doctors give injections into the wart. Or treat it with a special cream.

• Electrocoagulation

The operation is similar to excision, but is performed not with a scalpel, but with a special device that generates high-frequency electric current. In fact, the growth is burned out with electricity. The wound remains. It crusts over and heals in just a few weeks.

Remember – warts are caused by the human papillomavirus and therefore they will continue to multiply until HPV is defeated.

Pay more attention to prevention.

To reduce the risk of infection:

• Avoid touching warts or be sure to wash your hands after touching them
• Do not walk barefoot near swimming pools or in locker rooms
• Examine and wash the soles of your feet every day
• Do not scratch growths
• Do not use the same pumice for healthy skin and for warts
• Treat scratches and other damage promptly
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle
• Wear comfortable, loose shoes

These simple tips will help protect your body from frequent HPV exposure. Occasionally, the virus will still sneak in, but in such situations, you need to rely on immunity. As you remember, in most cases, growths do not appear. And if they grow, they do not cause discomfort. It is extremely difficult to find a healthy person who regularly suffers from painful and uncomfortable growths on the feet.

Unfortunately, sometimes treatment is indispensable.

Therefore, it is useful to read about the nearest clinics and find out the cost of removing plantar warts.

Cost of treatment of neoplasms on the foot

It is difficult to immediately answer how much it costs to remove warts.

The cost of the operation depends on many factors:

• Type of procedure
• Place of execution
• Neoplasm size
• Physician experience
• Complications

These are just general points. Sometimes, in addition to paying for the operation, you need to buy a remedy for warts on the foot.

Much depends on the choice of clinic. Some people choose to have their growths removed at beauty salons because of the low cost, but this is not always beneficial.

Remember that if the build-up is not completely removed, an additional procedure will be required. It is much easier to immediately remove the wart, albeit at a higher price, than to run to the beautician every day.

Looking for a reliable medical center?

We recommend visiting the LaserSweet Clinic.

Our doctors remove warts on the foot with a laser at an affordable price and in a short time.

Benefits of operation:

• Fast

Doctors remove a small neoplasm in just two minutes, and sometimes even faster. Larger formations take more time. Sometimes up to 10 minutes.

• Safety

The beam of light not only destroys the wart, but also disinfects the wound.

• Painless

Local anesthesia is given prior to removal. After that, the patient does not feel anything.

• Bloodless

Heating the skin bakes the vessels, and the possibility of bleeding is excluded.

Even after the operation, there are no scars and scars, although much depends on the patients themselves in this matter. With proper care, the skin is restored. Violators of the recommendations of a dermatologist can pay with ugly scars. However, they are not noticeable on the foot.

Doctors with experience of 17 years or more work at the LaserSvit Clinic. They have accumulated vast experience in identifying dangerous neoplasms, as they managed to examine over 100,000 patients.

Dermatologists remove various formations:

• Moles
• Papillomas
• Condylomas
• Atheroma
• Corns
• Lipomas
• Zhiroviki

Even tattoos and spider veins are easy to get rid of.

Come to LaserSweet and get rid of painful warts on the soles of your feet without pain or bleeding.

Plantar Wart: Causes and Treatments

Publication: 01/27/2023
Update: 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 90% of the world’s population can be infected with such a virus.

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 commonly, formations occur due to the virus of the 3rd, 27th, 29th-th 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 varieties 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 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.

A feature 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.
• 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:

Cryosurgery . 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 tissue 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 referred to as 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.