What’s Up with Warts?
There are plenty of foot and ankle issues that are easy to treat once they develop, but this doesn’t make them any more enjoyable to deal with! Among these common but easily treated podiatric problems are athlete’s foot (foot fungus), ingrown toenails, calluses, toenail fungus, and plantar warts. While plantar warts start off small and easy to treat, they can quickly become a concern if left untreated. Without proper treatment, plantar warts can become painful and debilitating, making everyday tasks more difficult than they need to be.
What exactly is a plantar wart and what happens when we develop them?
Plantar warts are actually one of the side effects of contracting the human papillomavirus, or HPV. This condition can be contracted by your bare feet coming in contact with the virus through any cuts, scrapes, or abrasions on your feet. The virus itself thrives in warm and moist environments, especially those teeming with bacteria. Despite plantar warts being relatively easy to treat, individuals with compromised immune systems are at high risk of developing debilitating pain and infection.
How can you tell if you have a plantar wart?
There is one or more thick and hardened spot on the bottom of your foot, similar in appearance to a callus.
The suspected area has small black dots around the hardened area.
It is painful to walk on the affected foot.
You experience discomfort and aching tenderness.
How can it be treated?
Removal via electric tools
Getting laser treatment
Using prescription topical creams
Trying over-the-counter medications
Utilizing freezing treatment
Don’t let plantar warts put a damper on the health of your feet. Take preventative measures by wearing protective footwear, avoiding walking barefoot on abrasive surfaces, and examining your feet daily for physical changes. Call us today at 609-587-1674 to schedule an appointment with Dr. James C. Ricketti or Dr. Stephen J. Skokan at our location in Hamilton Square, New Jersey!