What causes plantar warts?
Plantar warts are a result of a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. This viral invader easily breaks into your skin in areas where you have cuts, wounds, or abrasions.
In some cases though, HPV gets into your skin and your immune system quickly fights it off so warts never develop.
Your risk of struggling with warts when you’re exposed to HPV is higher if any of the following factors apply to you:
- Younger age (warts are very common among children and teens)
- Weakened immune system
- Decreased blood flow
HPV invaders thrive in any areas that are warm and moist. If you walk barefoot in these types of locations, you risk exposure to this wart-causing virus.
When should I see a podiatrist for plantar warts?
The expert podiatry team at Family Foot & Ankle Specialists encourages you to schedule a plantar wart examination if you notice any signs of warts.
Usually, they surface as small growths that have a tiny black dot in the middle. This telltale sign of warts indicates a broken blood vessel inside.
Because warts can spread and lead to discomfort, it’s important to have an exam if you experience any of the following issues:
- Yellow or crusty lesions
- Burning or stabbing pains
- Extreme tenderness when you press on the growths
Family Foot & Ankle Specialists provides highly effective in-office plantar wart treatments, so you can expect relief from your symptoms quickly.
Which plantar warts treatment is most effective?
To determine which type of plantar wart treatment is most effective for your specific symptoms, your podiatrist examines your feet and talks with you about what you’re experiencing. They may recommend any of the following clinical wart treatments:
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen
- Salicylic acid applications
- Laser therapy
Your podiatrist can even physically remove the wart through a curettage procedure. After getting your current wart outbreak under control, your podiatrist at Family Foot & Ankle Specialists talks with you about preventive measures you need to take — like always wearing flip flops in communal areas — to lower your risk of future warts.
Book your plantar warts evaluation at Family Foot & Ankle Specialists today. You can conveniently schedule through the website or over the phone with the office nearest you.
