Conditions Treated Foot & Ankle Plantar Warts

Plantar Warts

Plantar warts, also known as verrucas, are noncancerous skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) that typically develop on the soles of the feet. These warts often appear as small, rough, raised bumps with tiny black dots, which are actually clotted blood vessels. Plantar warts can vary in size and may occur singly or in clusters.

The human papillomavirus enters the body through minor cuts, abrasions, or breaks in the skin, commonly in moist environments, like public swimming pools or communal showers. Once infected, the virus triggers the rapid growth of skin cells, resulting in the formation of warts. Due to the pressure exerted on the feet during walking and standing, these warts may grow inward beneath the skin's surface, causing discomfort or pain, especially when walking or standing for long periods.

Plantar warts are contagious and can spread from person to person through direct contact or indirectly through contaminated surfaces.

Plantar warts manifest as small, rough growths on the soles of the feet, often containing tiny black dots (clotted blood vessels) within. They can vary in size, ranging from a pinhead to a pea, and may occur singularly or in clusters known as mosaic warts. Individuals with plantar warts may experience discomfort or pain, particularly when walking or standing, as pressure on the wart exacerbates sensations. Occasionally, they may cause itching or tenderness, further affecting mobility and daily activities.

Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), specifically types 1, 2, 4, and 63, which enter the body through small breaks, cuts, or weak spots on the sole of the foot. These viruses thrive in warm, moist environments, making places like locker rooms, public showers, and swimming pools common sources of infection. Additionally, individuals with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of developing these warts due to their reduced ability to fight off HPV.

Diagnosis of plantar warts typically involves a visual examination by a healthcare provider, focusing on the characteristic appearance of the wart. In some cases, healthcare providers may perform additional diagnostic tests, such as scraping the surface of the wart to examine it under a microscope (a procedure known as a skin biopsy) or using a dermatoscope to magnify and inspect the wart. These methods help confirm the diagnosis and differentiate plantar warts from other skin conditions, like calluses or corns.

Treatment options for plantar warts aim to remove the wart, alleviate symptoms, and prevent recurrence. Over-the-counter remedies containing salicylic acid are commonly used to dissolve the wart gradually. Cryotherapy, which involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen, is another effective treatment method. In more resistant cases, healthcare providers may recommend laser therapy or surgical removal of the wart. Some individuals may require combination therapies or multiple treatments to achieve complete resolution.

Specialized Plantar Wart Treatment in Montgomery County, Maryland

Receive personalized care for plantar warts at The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division. Our dedicated team of specialists offers customized treatment options to address the discomfort and irritation associated with plantar warts. Whether you're experiencing pain while walking, discomfort in your foot, or limited mobility due to warts, we're here to help you find relief and improve your foot health. Contact us at (301) 515-0900 or schedule your appointment online to begin your journey towards wart-free feet and enhanced foot function.

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