Warts
Plantar warts, caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV), can be very painful and continue to spread without early treatment from a podiatrist. If you have plantar warts, schedule an appointment as soon as possible. The podiatrists at Starrett Podiatry have successfully treated warts in thousands of patients.
To take the first step toward treatment and relief, schedule an appointment in one of six offices located in East Harlem and West Harlem in New York City; Brooklyn, New York; and Mott Haven and Belmont in Bronx, New York.
What causes plantar warts?
Plantar warts occur when the HPV virus gets into your body through open areas on the bottom of your foot, such as tiny cuts or punctures.
Not everybody who’s exposed to the virus will develop a wart; those at highest risk include children and teens, immunocompromised people, people with a history of plantar warts, and people who walk barefoot at pools or in locker rooms.
What are the signs and symptoms of plantar warts?
A rough, fleshy growth on the bottom of your foot, most commonly in weight-bearing areas
- Pain or tenderness at the site
- A well-defined callus over the area, which might indicate that the wart has grown inward
- Black pinpoints on your foot
What kind of doctor treats plantar warts?
Podiatrists treat plantar warts. They specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of foot problems and disorders.
Starrett Podiatry is conveniently located in six clinics in the Greater New York area and employs seven podiatrists to ensure you can see a specialist.
When should I see a doctor?
You should schedule an appointment if:
- The lesion on the bottom of your foot is painful or bleeding
- The lesion has changed in color or appearance
- The wart is interfering with your ability to work or participate in your regular daily activities
- You have diabetes
- You’re immunocompromised
How are plantar warts treated?
Treatment of plantar warts is progressive. Initial treatments include salicylic acid and cryotherapy (freezing). When those don’t work, your doctor may recommend minor surgery to cut away the wart. Starrett Podiatry offers surgery on-site for your convenience.
Is there anything I can do to prevent getting plantar warts?
If you already have a plantar wart, avoid touching it and wash your hands with soap if you do have to touch it.
Keep your feet dry; if you have a job that results in excessive sweating, consider changing your socks mid-day.
Wear sandals or water shoes when in warm, moist public areas. If you have a known sore on your foot, cover it with a bandage.