Warts that grow on the soles of feet are known as plantar warts. These fleshy, grainy patches of raised skin are known for their characteristic tiny, black dots that appear at their centers. Plantar warts are caused by the contagious human papillomavirus (HPV) entering the feet through a crack in the skin. Unlike other types of warts, plantar warts grow inwards, which can make walking uncomfortable. Warts on the feet generally respond well to treatment. If you have plantar warts that are causing you pain or discomfort, are discolored, show signs of infection such as bleeding, scabbing, and pus drainage, or if you have diabetes or an immune deficiency, you should see a podiatrist who can treat the warts and teach you how to prevent recurrences.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Gary Cockrell, DPM from Tennessee. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Brentwood and Madison, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.