A plantar wart is a hard, grainy growth that usually appears on the bottom of the foot, in areas where the most pressure is absorbed. Plantar warts occur when the human papillomavirus (HPV) makes contact with the skin on the soles of feet, which is usually introduced into the body through small cuts or openings on the bottom of the foot.This is why protecting your feet is very important to your health.
What are the Different Types of Plantar Warts?
Because they are spread through viral infections, those with weakened immune systems—such as children and senior citizens—are more likely to develop plantar warts in Greater Washington. While most warts are visible, some plantar warts grow inwards—due to too much pressure—and form a callus. The two most common types of plantar warts include:
- Solitary wart: When there is just one single wart that increases in size and may develop into additional “satellite” warts.
- Mosaic wart: In some cases, multiple warts cluster together in one area—these warts are usually more difficult to treat.
By understanding the different types of plantar warts, Dr. Duggirala and Dr. Deroy can properly treat your condition.
Symptoms of Plantar Warts in Greater Washington
While most cases of plantar warts can go away on their own with time, most people want faster relief. The goal of podiatric treatment in Bethesda, MD for plantar warts is to completely remove the wart, not cover it up. Common warning signs of plantar warts include:
- Small, fleshy and rough growths develop
- Hard, thickened skin forms
- Formation of small clotted blood vessels
- Pain when walking or standing
- Tenderness in the affected area
Dr. Duggirala and Dr. Deroy, our podiatrists at Bethesda Foot and Ankle Center, can usually diagnose a plantar wart by completing a simple physical exam. He or she may remove a section of the lesion to send out for further testing.
Treating Plantar Warts in Bethesda, MD, and Greater Washington
If walking becomes painful, or the warts are spreading, there are over-the-counter treatments available—though these often require multiple treatments and are still ineffective. When self-care and home remedies fail, visit Dr. Duggirala or Dr. Deroy, our Bethesda, MD podiatrists.
Dr. Duggirala and Dr. Deroy may recommend these conservative, non-invasive treatments for plantar warts:
- Prescription-strength wart medications
- Cryotherapy (freezing the wart off)
- Immunotherapy
- Minor surgery to cut away the wart
- Laser treatment
Contact Dr. Duggirala and Dr. Deroy of Bethesda Foot and Ankle Center to learn more about plantar warts and available treatment options.
