When the common human papillomavirus (HPV) enters the skin of the foot through a small cut or compromised area and causes keratin to develop, plantar warts occur. These are rough, white, or skin-colored warts that present on the heel, toes, or other weight-bearing points on the sole of the foot. Plantar warts, also known as verrucas, will sometimes have black dots at their core, which are actually clotted blood vessels. Because HPV is contagious, plantar warts can be passed from the skin of one person to another through direct contact, or by indirect exposure to an infected person’s socks, shoes, towels, or surfaces such as public swimming pools or communal changing rooms where the virus may be living. The virus can spread to hands and fingers, but the warts that develop on these parts of the body are known as palmar warts. People with a weakened immune system, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, or those who have warts that bleed, change color, cause a loss of sensation in the foot, or are very painful, should seek professional help. A podiatrist has a variety of remedies and procedures that can treat or even remove plantar warts.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Lee R. Stein from Lake Shore Foot & Ankle, PC. Our doctor 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 Chicago, Highland Park, and Uptown, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.