Plantar Warts: A Podiatrist’s Guide to Treatment
Plantar warts are painful growths on the soles of the feet caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can be unsightly and interfere with daily activities, but even worse, their inconvenient location on the soles of your feet means they’ll present constant, frustrating pain as you move through your day. And to make matters worse, they recur!
Fortunately, there are several effective treatment options available, andDr. Lionel Hausman has used all of them to achieve enduring results.
- Cantharidin: Thiseffective blistering agent is easily found over the counter and can even be blended with other approaches. It’s applied topically to the wart, where it attacks the top layer of skin cells and produces a blister. The blister then separates the affected tissue containing the wart virus from your skin.
- Salicylic Acid: This medication is a popular choice for treating plantar warts. It works by peeling away the layers of the wart, gradually eliminating it. However, it may take several weeks of consistent application to produce results.
- Cryotherapy: This procedure involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen. It can be performed by a podiatrist or dermatologist. Cryotherapy can be painful, but it can effectively eliminate the wart in multiple sessions.
Choosing the Right Treatment
The best treatment for plantar warts depends on several factors, including the size, location, and severity of the wart. Your podiatrist can help you determine the most appropriate course of action.
Preventing Plantar Warts
To reduce your risk of developing plantar warts:
- Wear sandals or flip-flops in public areas and avoid sharing towels or clothing. This can help prevent the spread of HPV.
- Keep your feet clean and dry. Moisture (and environments containing it) are conducive to the spread of this infection.
- See a podiatrist regularly. Early detection and treatment can help prevent plantar warts from becoming more severe.
Some estimates suggest that nearly 10% of people have plantar warts at one time or another. If you’re one of them, don’t hesitate to seek professional care! With the right treatment, you can effectively eliminate them and return to your normal activities.
If you have a foot or ankle condition or injury, you’ll want to visit Gramercy Park for an appointment with Board Certified Podiatrist Lionel G. Hausman, DPM. Whether it’s an ingrown toenail, heel pain, bunions, or plantar fasciitis, Dr. Hausman can expertly treat numerous foot and ankle conditions. If you’re in need of help, get in touch with us today!
