Plantar warts are a common condition that can only affect the feet. They occur when feet come in contact with the human papillomavirus (HPV), so they are contagious. Most people contract plantar warts from walking barefoot in the gym, public pool areas, locker rooms, or similar environments. Plantar warts differ from most warts because they grow inward through the thick layer of skin on the sole of the foot. The thick layer of skin helps the plantar warts hide from the body’s immune system and allows the warts to live on the foot without much resistance. To prevent plantar warts, avoid touching your feet with bare hands and walking barefoot in public places. Keep your feet clean and avoid sharing shoes or socks with other people. If you think you might have plantar warts, speak with a podiatrist to learn about treatment options.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Arnold Tarpley, Jr. from Tarpley Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Tarpley will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Uniontown, and Connellsville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.