Plantar Warts “Verruca Pedis”

Plantar warts, also known as “Verruca Pedis” are noncancerous skin growths caused by a viral infection (human papillomavirus also known as HPV) in the top layer of the skin. Warts are spread from person to person through direct and indirect transmission. Without treatment most warts will resolve spontaneously within approximately two years. However, occasionally they are painful so need early intervention.

Symptoms:

• Pain with lateral pressure
• ‘cauliflower ’ appearance

Risk Factors:

• Communal bathrooms and showers
• Skin trauma
• Weakened immune system

Assessment:

The podiatrists at toe-tal will diagnose the condition through physical examination, and go through all the necessary treatments listed below to help get you on the right path. 

Treatment (if painful):

1. Over-the-counter topical treatment (to be used with caution)
2. Debridement of the wart from a health professional (Podiatrist) and application of wart treatment including either: Sliver Nitrate, Salicylic Acid, Cryotherapy.  May need a few follow up appointments for successful results
3. Appropriate offloading may be required with padding from Podiatrist
4. Avoidance of pressure from footwear
5. Reduced risks and wear footwear in communal areas (eg. Wear thongs) and to cover all wounds and scratches when in this environment