Plantar Warts Don't Have to Slow You Down: Our Idaho Podiatrists Treat Both Children and Adults

Causes of Plantar Warts

Though not highly contagious, this common foot condition is caused by the introduction of the human papillomavirus (HPV) to the skin of the foot, often through a cut. These warts, which develop on the bottom of your feet, cause discomfort. Sometimes confused with a corn or callus, you may notice dark specks in the area as well. These are caused by clotted blood vessels.

Some of the common places we contract the virus that causes plantar warts include public showers, locker rooms, areas around pools, or any place where we are walking/participating in an activity while barefoot. The easiest and best way to protect yourself is to wear proper footwear in public and check your feet for any changes often.

Plantar warts are more common in children for several reasons:

Their skin is softer and thinner, making them more susceptible to infection.

Children often have weaker immune systems than adults, which can make it easier for the virus that causes plantar warts to take hold.

Children may not practice good foot care hygiene, such as regularly washing their feet or changing their socks, which makes it easier for the virus to spread.

If you think your child is suffering from plantar warts, contact our office immediately.

Common Symptoms of Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are generally associated with several common symptoms:

Pain or tenderness in the affected area.

The discomfort can range from mild to severe and may become worse when pressure is applied to the wart.

Pain that disrupts your daily activities.

In some cases, pain from the wart may cause disruption to your normal walking pattern due to discomfort or tenderness.

Visible bumps on the soles of your feet.

These bumps usually have black spots within them, which are known as "seed" or "blood" spots.

Thickened areas of skin that resemble calluses.

These bumps typically don't hurt but can be itchy or uncomfortable when pressure is applied to them.

How Plantar Warts Are Diagnosed

A podiatrist is the best person to diagnose plantar warts. During the visit, your podiatrist will examine the affected area to determine if it is indeed a wart. Your podiatrist may also take a sample of skin from the wart in order to obtain further analysis.

In some cases, imaging studies such as an X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI can also be used to get a more detailed view of the area and better understand the extent of the problem.

Treating Plantar Warts

The experienced podiatrists at Rocky Mountain Foot and Ankle will create an individualized treatment plan for your particular case. Treatment options may include:

Topical medications.

Your podiatrist may suggest medications such as salicylic acid be applied directly to the affected area in order to treat plantar warts.

Cryotherapy.

This procedure involves the freezing of warts with liquid nitrogen and can be used to destroy tissue in the area.

Surgical removal.

Warts may need to be surgically removed if they are too large or painful. This procedure is typically done under local anesthetic and has a short recovery time.

Laser treatments.

When plantar warts keep reappearing, laser treatments can be used to target their underlying blood vessels and help stop them from growing back.

Are You Suffering From Plantar Warts In The Caldwell Or Meridian, Idaho Area?

If you're suffering from plantar warts you owe it to yourself to speak with our experienced podiatrists as soon as possible. Please feel free to contact us online or call our office directly at 208.855.5955 to schedule your appointment. We service all areas surrounding Meridian, Idaho as well as all areas in the Caldwell, Idaho area. We look forward to helping you!