What are Plantar Warts?
Plantar warts are non-cancerous skin growths that appear on the soles of the feet. The thick patch of skin, or callus, that results is often gray or brown and contains dark specks. A plantar wart causes pain when walking and might cause you to feel as if you have a rock in your shoe. Some plantar warts develop in a cluster-like form; these are called mosaic warts.
Because it occurs on the bottom of the feet, a plantar wart protrudes internally due to standing and walking. All warts, including plantar warts, are caused by a virus, the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is not harmful until it enters the skin through an opening or break. This virus is the most common type of skin infection. Once inside the skin, HPV can cause infection. The virus, which thrives on warm, moist areas and is contagious, causes the skin cells to grow quickly.
One risk factor for plantar warts is walking barefoot in public places such as locker rooms, pools, or shower areas. Tight, closely fitting shoes can also create a breeding ground for warts. If a plantar wart causes difficulty walking, see a doctor. In the case of a plantar wart, a doctor needs to distinguish between corns, calluses, and warts. Usually, a physician can diagnose a plantar wart by its appearance, but if necessary, he or she can scrape the skin and send the sample to a lab for inspection.
Plantar warts are one of six main categories of warts. There are many forms of treatment for plantar and other warts. Some warts, including plantar warts, disappear without treatment. Home treatments include salicylic acid and tape occlusion. A doctor can also prescribe prescription or over-the-counter medications to help heal plantar warts.
A physician can also use an electrical current to burn a wart or laser surgery. Cryotherapy involves using a freezing liquid to dissolve a wart. Surgery is normally not used for plantar warts because it may result in painful scarring.
To prevent plantar warts, frequently change socks and shoes to keep feet dry. Keep feet clean. Also, avoid contact with warts on other parts of the body or on other persons. Visit your doctor if you notice any growths or unusual conditions on your skin. Look for signs of plantar warts on children’s feet.
Written by Cathy Rogers
