Understanding Plantar Warts | Saint Luke’s Health System

A
plantar wart is a small, noncancer growth on the bottom of the foot. Plantar warts
often
develop where friction or pressure occurs, such as on the ball of the foot. The word
plantar refers to the sole of the foot. Similar warts can occur on other areas of
the body
such as the hands. Plantar warts are more common in children and young adults.

What causes a plantar wart?

Plantar warts are caused by a virus called HPV (human papillomavirus).

They
can be spread by person-to-person contact. Or you can develop one if you walk barefoot
on moist surfaces infected with the virus. This might be in a community pool area
or
locker room. Wearing the correct footwear in such places can prevent them.

What are the symptoms of plantar warts?

Plantar warts cause a thick, rough, and often raised patch of skin on the bottom of
the
foot. The wart may have black dots on it. These dots are dried blood. The wart may
cause
pain or discomfort. You may also have trouble walking because of the pain.

How are plantar warts treated?

Many
plantar warts go away without any treatment. But for those that are painful or that
don’t go away, several treatments are available. The most common treatments include:

• Salicylic acid. This is put directly on the
  wart. It may come in the form of a liquid, ointment, pad, or patch. It’s available
  over the counter. Don’t use salicylic acid treatment for more than 12 weeks
  without talking with your healthcare provider.

• Cryotherapy. Your provider puts liquid nitrogen
  on the wart with a cotton swab or spray. This treatment might be painful.

• Medicine. A variety of medicines can be put
  on or injected into the wart. But research is mixed on how well they work.

There are many folk remedies for plantar warts, but some of these are unproven and
can
be dangerous. Talk with your provider about safe methods to try. Often your provider
will cut away dead parts of the wart before using other treatments.  

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Call
your healthcare provider if you have plantar warts that:

• Become too painful
• Don’t go away on their own or with over-the-counter and
  at-home treatments

What causes plantar warts?

Plantar warts are warts that occur on the bottoms of the feet and pads of the toes.

These warts can become very painful when they grow in places on the foot that support your weight. But what exactly causes plantar warts?

Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV. There are more than 100 types of HPV, but only some of them cause warts. HPV enters the top layer of skin through tiny cuts and causes excessive cell growth. The cells on the surface of the skin grow thicker and harder and eventually form a raised bump—a wart. Since plantar warts occur on the bottoms of the feet, they’re subjected to a lot of pressure from walking and standing. Because of this, they tend to grow inward rather than outward.

What are the risk factors for plantar warts?

Some people are more likely to develop plantar warts than others. While they’re most common in children and teenagers, warts can occur at any age. You may be at a higher risk for warts, including plantar warts, if you:

• Use communal showers
• Had plantar warts before
• Have eczema or another chronic skin condition
• Have a weakened immune system
• Have close contact with someone who has warts

Are plantar warts dangerous?

No, plantar warts aren’t dangerous. They are noncancerous skin growths. However, they can be painful. Some may itch or feel tight. Plantar warts may contain tiny blood vessels, or capillaries, which appear as small, black dots on the surface of the wart. This is normal, and it’s nothing to be concerned about.

Unlike common warts, which occur on the hands and fingers and grow outward, plantar warts are often pushed inward due to the pressure from walking and standing. This can make them particularly painful, and it makes them a little harder to treat than outward-growing warts.

Are plantar warts contagious?

Yes, because plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus, they shed the virus, and so they’re contagious. Warts can spread from one part of the body to another, or they can spread to other people through contact with the wart or an object that’s been in contact with the wart, like a sock, shoe, shower floor, pool deck or other surface where you often go barefoot. However, not everyone who encounters the virus will get a wart.

Human papillomaviruses multiply in the skin, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll develop more warts. However, if you’ve had one wart, you may be more likely to have more later on. Even if you have a plantar wart removed, the virus may remain in the skin and could cause another wart in the future.

How long does it take for plantar
warts to go away?

Most plantar warts go away on their own, often after a few weeks or months. Sometimes it can take two years or longer for a wart to disappear. If you have plantar warts that aren’t bothersome, you can leave them alone and allow them to go away on their own.

If your plantar warts are causing pain, plantar wart treatments are available over the counter and by a healthcare provider.

What to do if you have plantar warts

If you have one or more plantar warts that aren’t bothering you, you can leave them alone and see if they disappear on their own. Meanwhile, you can help prevent them from spreading to other parts of your body by following these general practices:

• Leave your wart alone; don’t pick at it or scratch it, which can spread the virus and potentially cause an infection
• Whenever you touch your plantar warts, wash your hands afterward
• Keep your feet dry, and put on clean socks every day

If your plantar warts are causing pain, see a healthcare provider for a plantar wart treatment. Once they’re gone, keep a close eye on your feet, and if you notice more warts developing, consider having them removed right away, while they’re still small.

Published February 2022.

Sources:

1. https://doi.org/10.7556/jaoa.2018.024
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/plantar-warts/symptoms-causes/syc-20352691
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/plantar-warts/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352697
4. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/common-warts-plantar-warts-and-flat-warts-beyond-the-basics
5. https://familydoctor.org/condition/warts/?adfree=true

90,000 sore warts – how to remove a wart in 2023

The concept of plantar warts, how they look

warts – these are neoplasms of the skin and mucous membranes (warts can also be observed in the mouth or on the genitals).

Warts can be caused by over 100 different types of human papillomavirus (HPV). The human papilloma virus causes a thickening of the top layer of the epidermis (skin).

Plantar wart ( Plantar wart) is a wart that occurs and is located on the sole of the foot. Often, these warts have the appearance of a callus and resemble a callus on palpation.

Plantar warts may be small, or they may grow and cover most of the sole of the foot. They are usually painless and go away on their own, but sometimes they take several months to resolve (but can take up to 2 years).

Causes of plantar warts

Warts are usually transmitted from person to person by contact. The virus is not very virulent or able to infect another person, but sometimes infection occurs through a small defect in the skin.

Similarly, warts can spread to other parts of the body. The virus is rarely transmitted by touching an object that has been used by a previously infected person.

HPV or human papillomavirus is very common and there are more than 100 types of the virus. But only a few of them cause the appearance of warts on the legs. Other types of HPV are more likely to cause warts on other areas of the skin or mucous membranes.

Transmission of the virus

Each person’s immune system reacts differently to the human papillomavirus (HPV). That being said, the human papillomavirus strains that cause plantar warts are not very contagious.

Thus, the virus cannot be easily transmitted by direct contact from one person to another. But it thrives in warm, humid places, so you can catch the virus by walking barefoot while visiting the pool or changing rooms.

Read more in our article: Warts appear on the skin

Types and stages of development of plantar warts 9000 4

The most common locations for plantar warts are:

• The soles of the feet, especially areas which bear the load (for example, heels and balls of the feet)
• Underside of toes

Plantar warts can be found singly or in groups. They appear as thick, rough, calloused bumps on the soles of the feet. In addition, plantar warts often have many small black dots on the surface, which are actually tiny blood vessels.

Plantar warts are usually painful when pressed or mechanically applied.

The stages of development of plantar warts are based on the division of warts into types, according to size:

• Small plantar warts One or more small, painless warts.

Plantar wart photo sourced from https://dermnetnz.org/

• Moderate or medium plantar warts are multiple lesions that can cause discomfort.

Common plantar wart source https://dermnetnz.org/

• Giant plantar wart – Warts cover most of the sole and can cause significant discomfort and pain.

Giant Plantar Warts, Source https://dermnetnz.org/

Plantar Wart: Effective Treatments

Contents

• 1 How to Effectively Get Rid of a Plantar Wart at Home: Proven Methods and Tips
  90 059 1. 1 What is plantar wart?
  • 1.2 What are the symptoms of a plantar wart?
  • 1.3 Causes of plantar warts
  • 1.4 Treatment of plantar warts: home remedies
  • 1.5 Traditional treatments for plantar warts
  • 1.6 Medications and preparations for the treatment of plantar warts
    • 1 .6.1 Agents for external use
    • 1.6.2 Agents for internal appointment
  • 1.7 When should I see a doctor if I have a plantar wart?
  • 1.8 Procedures performed in medical institutions for the treatment of plantar warts
  • 1.9 The role of immunity in the treatment of plantar warts
  • 1.10 Preventing the recurrence of plantar warts
  • 1.11 Conclusions
  • 1.12 Related videos:
  • 1.13 Q&A :
    • • 1.13.0.1 What causes a plantar wart?
      • 1.13.0.2 What are the symptoms associated with a plantar wart?
      • 1.13.0.3 What are the treatments for plantar warts?
      • 1.13.0.4 How long does a cryotherapy procedure take to treat a plantar wart?
      • 1. 13.0.5 How effective are keratolytic agents in the treatment of plantar warts?
      • 1.13.0.6 What are the possible complications after plantar wart removal?

Find out how to treat a plantar wart at home without pain or surgery. We will talk about effective methods that will help you deal with the problem quickly and safely.

A plantar wart is a skin defect caused by the human papillomavirus. It is located on the sole of the foot and can cause serious inconvenience when walking.

The treatment of a plantar wart is a rather complicated and lengthy procedure. However, there are a number of effective methods that allow you to get rid of the wart and prevent its reappearance.

It is important to note that self-treatment of a plantar wart can lead to serious complications and deterioration of the general condition of the body. Therefore, at the first signs of the disease, it is necessary to contact an experienced specialist to receive qualified assistance.

What is a plantar wart?

A plantar wart is a small tumor-like growth on the sole of the foot caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). It can be painful and interfere with walking. Plantar warts often occur in children and adolescents, but can occur at any age.

Plantar warts usually have a black dotted center and a yellowish rim. This is due to the accumulation of blood vessels and dead tissue. They can result from injury or pressure on the foot.

It is important to note that a plantar wart should not be confused with calluses or insanity. Calluses are caused by friction, and insanity is a deep inflammatory skin disease. Ensure correct diagnosis before starting treatment.

What are the symptoms of a plantar wart?

Soreness – A plantar wart can cause discomfort and pain when walking, especially if located on the phalanx of the toe. As a rule, the larger the wart, the more soreness.

Yellowish tint – Sometimes plantar warts can have a yellowish tint, which is due to the death of skin cells, the formation of keratin and the penetration of dirt and dust into the wound.

Bleeding – in some cases, if the plantar wart is damaged, bleeding may occur.

Development of calluses – Due to constant friction with shoes, a large plantar wart can turn into a callus and cause dryness and flaking of the skin around it.

The appearance of new warts – plantar warts can spread to other areas of the foot, as well as to the nails.

Causes of a plantar wart

A plantar wart is one of the most common forms of warts that can appear on different parts of the body. It occurs as a result of a viral infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV).

It turns out that plantar warts often develop in people who are constantly in damp rooms and wear tight shoes. Attention also needs to be paid to the characteristics of the body, in some cases people with a reduced immune system are also prone to the likelihood of warts.

• Viral infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Some heredity that causes a tendency to develop warts
• Constant wearing of tight shoes
• Constant exposure to damp and closed rooms
• Decreased immune system of the body

There is also a possibility of infection HPV through various surfaces such as slippers, towels, swimming pools and other public places with difficult sanitary conditions.

Treatment of plantar warts: home methods

Plantar wart is a fairly common disease that not only causes discomfort, but can also lead to complications. Often patients ask the question: is it possible to treat a plantar wart at home?

One of the most popular treatments for plantar warts is the use of special medicines, such as salicylic acid or urea-containing ointments. The advantages of such treatment include a relatively quick result and a minimal risk of complications. However, when using these products, it is necessary to follow certain rules of hygiene and protect the wart from injury and overdrying.

Another popular treatment is the use of folk remedies. Vegetable oils, plant infusions, as well as the use of onions or garlic for several days can act as such remedies. However, the risk of complications when using folk remedies is higher than when using drugs.

In any case, when treating a plantar wart, it is important to remember that the result can be achieved only with an integrated approach to treatment and compliance with all doctor’s recommendations. Therefore, if you find a wart on your foot, you should not postpone a visit to a dermatologist or pediatrician.

Traditional Treatments for Plantar Wart

Dealing with a plantar wart can be a long and frustrating process. However, there are effective alternative treatments that help with such a problem.

1. Garlic is a good anti-inflammatory and antiviral agent. Remember – this light product has a bright ability to “draw” the infection into itself. Before using, place a piece of fresh garlic on your wart and cover it with a bandage. It is recommended to repeat this procedure every day for 2-3 weeks.
2. Baking Soda and Salt – A combination of these ingredients can be used to create a paste that will block the wart’s blood supply and make it dry out more quickly. Mix well one teaspoon of salt and soda, add water to make a paste. Apply to your wart and leave on for 15-20 minutes. You will feel a burning sensation, but this is normal. Repeat the procedure 2-3 times a day for 2-3 weeks.
3. Orange Peel – contains an acid which is a useful wart removal agent. Remove the peel from one orange, slice it, and cover the surface of the wart. Securely fasten the compress with a bandage and leave overnight. Repeat the procedure every night for a week.

Traditional methods may take extra time, but can be an effective way to get rid of a plantar wart without the intervention of a surgeon. However, if you have any doubts about the effectiveness of any of these methods, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Medicines and preparations for the treatment of plantar warts

Topical products

Salicylic acid – often used as the main topical treatment for warts. It makes the skin chloride and provides an additional mechanical effect when removing accumulated cells.

Imiquimod is a new generation of drugs containing immunomodulatory properties. This medicine fights not only with warts, but also improves the activity of the protective functions of the body.

Triclopol is a topical medicine that acts on the principle of cryoencapsulation. It creates a mechanical effect on the wart, destroying its cells at low temperatures.

Internal preparations

Interferon – used to restore the body’s immune functions. This drug maintains the level of protective functions and reduces the likelihood of recurrence of warts.

Polyvinylpyrrolidone-iodine – contains bactericidal properties and fights well against viruses that cause warts.

Amiksin is a powerful immunomodulator that activates the body’s defense mechanisms. As a result, the process of self-regulation improves and the immune system fights infections that cause warts more successfully.

When should I see a doctor if I have a plantar wart?

A plantar wart is not only a cosmetic defect, but also a possible cause of pain and discomfort when walking. If the wart causes pain, begins to bleed, change color and shape, this is a serious signal to see a doctor.

For more effective treatment of a plantar wart, it is also necessary to consult a doctor if it reappears after treatment.

Hospital Treatments for a Plantar Wart

When visiting a healthcare facility with a plantar wart, patients may be offered several treatments. One of them is cryotherapy. During the procedure, under the influence of liquid nitrogen, the wart and neighboring tissues freeze, as a result of which it dies and disappears.

Another method is laser wart removal. The laser beam accurately and gently removes the affected area of ​​the skin without leaving scars. This procedure is also accompanied by minimal discomfort for the patient.

Another option is electrocoagulation. Under the influence of electric current, the wart ceases to receive blood and nutrition, it soon dies and disappears.

It is important to note that such procedures should only be trusted by qualified doctors, since improper removal of the wart can lead to the formation of new formations, sterile conditions are the key to successful treatment.

The role of the immune system in the treatment of plantar wart

Plantar wart is a disease caused by the human papillomavirus that causes warts on the feet. The immune system plays an important role in the treatment of this disease. This is due to the fact that our body itself can fight the virus that causes the appearance of warts.

Strong immunity can prevent the appearance of warts on the feet. It can also stop the development of already existing warts. Therefore, the normalization of the immune system will improve the patient’s condition and solve the problem with the plantar wart.

Some treatments for plantar warts are aimed at strengthening the immune system. For example, a vitamin complex, antioxidants, yoga and other methods help boost immunity and make it more resistant to attacks from viruses and infections. It is also important to eliminate the cause of the fall in immunity, such as stress, lack of sleep, poor nutrition, etc. To do this, you need to lead a healthy lifestyle and eliminate factors that negatively affect the state of immunity.

Preventing the recurrence of a plantar wart

Plantar wart is a disease caused by the human papillomavirus. Like any other viral infection, once it enters the body, it remains there for life. Therefore, in order to prevent re-infection, a number of precautions must be observed.

• Avoid bare feet . It is through microtraumas on the feet that the virus enters the body. Wear flip-flops in public areas such as swimming pools, showers, and gyms.
• Good hygiene . Wash your feet thoroughly every day, especially after visiting public places. Do not use shared towels for this, as well as shoes and socks.
• Strengthen your immunity . A strong immune system is the best defense against any infection, including the human papillomavirus. Exercise regularly, watch your diet.

In the event of a plantar wart, see a professional dermatologist-podologist as soon as possible. Without self-treatment and attempts to cut out the wart.

Conclusions

Plantar wart is a condition that requires immediate treatment. If a wart is left untreated, it can grow and spread to other areas of the skin. The sooner treatment begins, the higher the chances of a complete cure.

Treatment methods for plantar warts are quite diverse, and each person can choose the most suitable method for himself. Some prefer the treatment of folk methods, others – the use of medications. Before starting treatment, it is worth consulting with a dermatologist and choosing the best treatment method.

In addition to traditional treatments, there are ways to prevent plantar warts. This is regular washing of feet and shoes, wearing dry socks, avoiding shoes of unreliable quality. Timely prevention will help to avoid the appearance of warts on the sole.

It must be remembered that plantar warts can affect a person’s quality of life. This may lead to decreased activity, irritability and discomfort when walking. Therefore, it is important to understand that the treatment of warts is not only a problem of a cosmetic order, but also of health in general.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What causes a plantar wart?

Plantar wart is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) that enters the skin through microtrauma.

What are the symptoms associated with a plantar wart?

Symptoms of a plantar wart include pain when walking, thickening of the skin, the formation of a rough wart tumor with black dots, which are vascular capillaries.

What are the treatments for plantar warts?

There are several treatments for plantar warts, including keratolytics, cryotherapy, electrocautery, laser therapy, and surgical removal of the wart.

How long does a cryotherapy procedure take to treat a plantar wart?

The cryotherapy treatment for a plantar wart lasts approximately 1 to 5 minutes.