Three out of four people will develop a wart in their lifetime. Warts are contagious, but they are completely harmless. Plantar warts appear on the bottom of the foot, and they are caused by a virus. These warts are spreadable as well as contagious. Kids are most susceptible to getting plantar warts because their immune systems are immature. Liquid nitrogen is the most common treatment used to get rid of warts because it freezes them off. Blistering agents can also be used to remove plantar warts.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, Dr. Andrew H. Cohen, D.P.M. of Mid-Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Cohen can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
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
- Legions 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, will 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 Saginaw and Essexville, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.