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Plantar warts develop on the soles of the feet, particularly around pressure-bearing areas like the heels and balls. Some plantar warts may disappear without treatment, while others sometimes become uncomfortable or painful over time. When a plantar wart causes discomfort or affects walking, a podiatrist is able to evaluate the area and discuss available treatment options. Here is more information about treatments for plantar warts:
Understanding Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are small growths that commonly develop on pressure-bearing areas of the feet. They result from human papillomavirus (HPV), which are able to enter through cuts or cracks in the skin. The virus can spread through direct contact or exposure to contaminated surfaces, particularly when walking barefoot. Plantar warts are able to appear rough and skin-colored, with small black dots sometimes visible within the growth. Some podiatrists evaluate painful warts or those affecting people with conditions that may influence circulation.
Trying Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid gradually removes layers of skin affected by a plantar wart. Over-the-counter products are available, while podiatry practices may use stronger preparations during professional treatment. Sometimes the treatment process requires repeated applications as the wart tissue gradually breaks down.
A podiatrist can evaluate the wart and determine how salicylic acid is able to fit into the treatment plan. Professional supervision also allows the provider to monitor changes in the affected skin throughout treatment. Patients can receive guidance about application, treatment frequency, and foot care between appointments.
Freezing With Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is an in-office treatment that uses liquid nitrogen to freeze plantar wart tissue. A podiatrist applies the liquid nitrogen directly to the affected area during the procedure. Freezing damages the wart tissue so the body can gradually remove it.
A blister is able to form over the treated area following cryotherapy. As the skin heals, the treated tissue may eventually separate and fall away naturally. Some plantar warts are able to require additional treatment sessions depending on their size and response.
Patients are able to receive instructions for protecting the treated area while the skin recovers. Keeping the area clean helps support the healing process, while certain activities are able to require temporary adjustments. A podiatrist can provide aftercare guidance based on the location and condition of the treated skin.
Targeting Warts With Laser Therapy
Laser therapy uses focused energy to treat the small blood vessels that supply a plantar wart. Reducing this blood supply damages the wart tissue, which can gradually break down after treatment. A podiatrist is able to discuss laser therapy when a plantar wart has not responded to other treatment methods.
The focused nature of laser therapy allows the provider to target the affected tissue during the procedure. Some treatment needs vary depending on the wart’s size, location, and response to previous care. Patients can discuss the procedure, recovery, and possible follow-up care with their podiatrist before treatment.
Removing Warts With Surgery
Minor surgery may be an option when a plantar wart does not respond to other treatment methods. During the procedure, a podiatrist uses a surgical instrument to remove the wart and affected tissue from the area. This approach directly removes the growth, while recovery needs often vary based on its size and location. After the procedure, the podiatry team can provide instructions for caring for the treatment site as it heals.
Book Your Plantar Wart Evaluation
Plantar warts can cause discomfort when standing, walking, or placing pressure on the affected area. Treatment options are able to include salicylic acid, cryotherapy, laser therapy, or minor surgery, depending on the wart. A podiatrist are able to evaluate the growth and discuss treatment options based on its size, location, and symptoms. Schedule a plantar wart evaluation today to learn which treatment approach may fit your needs.
