TREATING PLANTAR WARTS
Foot pain can be present due to a common condition called plantar warts. Plantar warts are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) and can cause hard outgrowths that can be on the heels or balls of the foot. Normal walking or standing can make the warts bulge out into the skin causing pain. Our body forms calluses to prevent the spread of the wart. These calluses can also cause pain. Plantar warts can go away by themselves, but often need to be treated.
Dr. Aakruti Bhalja is an expert in treating plantar warts. If plantar warts are ruining your life, Dr.Bhalja will review the treatment options to reduce pain and deformity. She will also discuss recovery time, return to work and activity.
Dr. Bhalja is a highly reviewed plantar wart specialist.
patients testimonials
★★★★★dr. Bhalja was wonderful. She took the time to explain the procedure i was having done. She also answered all my questions with patience. – Ann
★★★★★Dr. Bhaljia was so detailed, warm, and personable! She was so patient and made sure to x-ray my injured foot from various angles to ensure she could make an informed diagnosis. She also gave great advice for lifestyle changes to implement to support my foot health for the long-term! – Sabrina
WHAT IS A PLANTAR WART?
Caused by the HPV virus, plantar warts are often painful calluses on the balls of the foot and heel. The virus invades through tiny cuts in the skin. It may take months before the wart becomes symptomatic. Because it is a virus, it is contagious. Infections can spread in shared gym, pool, sports facilities. People with reduced immune systems are most prone, including children and immunocompromised people.
SYMPTOMS OF PLANTAR WARTS
- Bumpy growths on the soles of feet
- Circular flat spot with a depressed middle
- Yellow with a crust or a black spot in the middle
- Pain in the sole with standing or walking
HPV infection causes plantar warts!!!
TREATMENTS FOR PLANTAR WARTS
- Some resolve themselves
- Salicylic acid cream to burn off the wart
- Curettage (cutting out the wart)
- Laser therapy (burn off blood vessels to the wart)
- Liquid nitrogen (freeze off the wart)
If a wart is deep or if it seems to recur after treatments, then a consultation with a specialist is recommended for effective treatment.
Corns or calluses can be a symptom of a bunion!!!
FAQS
Most treatments may take several weeks. Because warts are difficult to treat and because they can recur, it is important to follow through with the treatment carefully.
Laser therapy may be effective in 1 to 3 treatments.
Covering your feet is important when you are in a pool or shared locker room. A HPV vaccine may also be helpful. Changing your socks and shoes daily is also important.
