What causes plantar warts?
Plantar warts are tiny growths that tend to develop on the balls of your feet and between your toes. They form when you’re exposed to human papillomavirus, or HPV, which can enter your skin through the tiniest crack or wound.
HPV is highly contagious, so it’s easy to come into contact with it when you walk barefoot in an area where viral invaders thrive, like a communal shower or a pool deck. Your risk of developing plantar warts is elevated if you have a weakened immune system, which is common with children, or if you have a history of plantar warts.
How do I know if I have plantar warts?
Plantar warts are highly visible, although they often mimic corns or other growths on your feet, so you may overlook a wart outbreak. When you have plantar warts, you may notice:
- Raised or elevated bumps that disrupt the lines on your foot
- Electrical pains or burning sensations with pressure
- Growths with a grainy or rough texture
- Bumps with black pinpoint centers
- Small clusters of growths
If left untreated, foot warts can grow into your skin, which causes a thickened callus to form over them. If any of these symptoms are affecting you or your child, come in to Annapolis Foot and Ankle Center for treatment right away.
Is there an effective treatment for plantar warts?
Yes. The team at Annapolis Foot and Ankle Center provides the latest and most effective plantar wart solutions, so you can experience relief from agonizing wart discomfort. To treat foot warts, your podiatrist may recommend:
- In-office laser surgery
- Clinical-strength salicylic acid ointments
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen (freezing therapy)
- Applying an electrical current, known as electrocautery
The Annapolis Foot and Ankle Center team is dedicated to finding the right plantar wart treatment for you or your child’s needs. Your provider also spends time counseling you about how to prevent a foot wart outbreak in the future.
Before your plantar warts worsen, schedule an evaluation at Annapolis Foot and Ankle Center. Call the nearest office or book online today.
