Plantar warts can be effectively treated with podiatric therapies. Find out about the different approaches and advice from a podiatrist on how to prevent and treat them.
Causes of plantar warts.
A plantar wart is considered to be a benign skin lesion caused by a virus (HPV). This lesion frequently appears on the soles of the feet, including the heel or toes, following exposure to the virus. Although not dangerous, plantar warts are contagious and can multiply. Ask a podiatrist about the treatments available.
The expertise of a podiatrist to treat plantar warts.
A podiatrist will target the most effective and appropriate treatment for a foot wart. Ideally, you should consult a podiatrist as soon as you suspect an abnormality. The sooner you consult your podiatrist, the more effectively he or she will be able to treat plantar warts and prevent contagion. Otherwise, the virus may require more time-consuming treatment.
Types of plantar warts.
The most common type of plantar wart is the mosaic wart, which is shallower but very widespread on the foot. More superficial in nature, they are less painful. The myrmecia type wart is the most common. Present as a growth under the skin, it can cause constant discomfort and pain when compressed.
Treatment options to get rid of a plantar wart.
Consulting a podiatrist will enable you to eliminate the virus that causes plantar warts and avoid contagion.
Depending on the size and type of wart, the podiatrist will advise you on the treatment that will give the best results.
Keratolytic agents are available over the counter. This product is suitable for several types of wart, although it is most effective for small ones. This treatment has the effect of destroying the skin, little by little, before eliminating the virus. However, total healing is not guaranteed.
Vesicatory agents are used by the majority of podiatrists because of their greater effectiveness. This treatment is applied locally. After several hours, a reaction occurs that stimulates healing by encouraging the skin to regenerate and create a blister.
The anti-neoplastic agent is required in cases of more resistant or large-scale viruses. Its effect is to destroy the virus completely.
Cryotherapy is a cold treatment using liquid nitrogen to burn off warts. Sometimes used as a last resort, this solution must be applied by a health professional. This treatment is not recommended because it requires a large number of applications. Consult a podiatrist for more information.
How can I avoid contracting a plantar wart?
There are simple and effective ways of avoiding plantar warts and preventing them from spreading:
- Avoid walking barefoot in public places. Wearing sandals or shoes is recommended.
- Keep your feet dry. Some people tend to sweat from their feet. Socks made from more natural fibres and other products that control perspiration are recommended.
- Affected areas should be covered as soon as they are treated.
Plantar warts in children and adolescents:
Plantar warts are contagious and transmitted more easily in public places. Children and adolescents are more likely to be affected, as they are more exposed to this virus, which spreads in these places. The methods mentioned above are particularly recommended for these age groups.
Myths and plantar warts:
Certain information is circulating about plantar warts. Some people believe that the virus can be treated on its own. Although this is sometimes true, the virus is more likely to spread than to heal itself.