Simple Solutions Can Rid the Painful Sight of Plantar Warts

Those who would like to show off their feet in the summer may have some trouble and embarrassment to deal with if they have plantar warts. Plantar warts won’t cause serious health woes, but can be painful and difficult to get rid of, according to Mark Kaufmann, associate clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York.

Fortunately, there are precautions and treatments available for these warts. Kaufman suggests duct tape and salicylic acid-based products can work wonders for your feet. Even though these recommendations may work, he highly suggests all patients to consult their doctor before trying any remedies.     

Plantar warts are painful and annoying to deal with. If you are experiencing plantar warts you might want to speak with a chiropodist like Marz Hardy of Academy Foot and Orthotic Clinics. Marz Hardy, D.Ch., B.Sc., Podiatric Medicine can evaluate your condition and provide you with the right treatment for your feet.

All about Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are warts that are only found on the feet, hence the term plantar, which means “relating to the foot.” They are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, and occur when this gets into open wounds on the feet. The warts themselves are hard bumps on the foot and easily recognizable, mostly found on the heels or ball of the foot. For the most part, plantar warts are harmless, but they can cause some pain, discomfort, and are often unsightly, so removing them is often the first step taken.

Plantar warts can cause some pain while standing, sometimes felt as tenderness on the sole of your foot. Unless the wart has grown into the foot behind a callus, you will be able to see the fleshy wart. Because plantar warts are not cancerous or dangerous, a podiatrist should only be consulted if there is an excess amount of pain associated with getting them, if they are affecting your walking, or if they continually come back. However, anyone who suffers from diabetes or a compromised immune system disease should seek out care immediately.

Although plantar warts usually do not require an excessive amount of treatment, there are ways to go about removing them. A common method is to freeze them off using liquid nitrogen, removing them using an electrical tool or burning them off via laser treatment. For a less invasive treatment option, topical cream can be used through a doctor’s prescription, which may help given enough time and patience.

If you have any questions, please contact our office in Toronto, ON. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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