If you need a more accessible version of this website, click this button on the right.Switch to Accessible Site
We'd like to welcome our newest doctor, Rory Gilhooly, DPM, to our practice starting on August 1st and accepting new patients.

Flint Office
1303 S. Linden Rd., Suite D
Flint, MI 48532

March 2025

Tuesday, 04 March 2025 00:00

Treatment Options for Plantar Warts

Plantar warts develop on the bottom of the foot due to exposure to the human papillomavirus, or HPV, often found in warm, damp environments. Some plantar warts resolve on their own, but others may require treatment. It is important to seek professional care, as attempting to remove a plantar wart at home improperly can damage healthy skin and increase discomfort. A podiatrist can provide several options, including applying salicylic acid to break down the wart over time or using cryotherapy to freeze it off with liquid nitrogen. If the wart is persistent, additional treatments may be necessary. Among them are curettage to remove the wart surgically, laser therapy to target the blood vessels feeding the wart, or prescription medication applied directly to the affected area. Plantar warts that are deep or cause pain may require a combination of treatments for effective removal. If you notice an unusual or painful growth on the bottom of your foot, it may indicate a plantar wart, and it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Community Podiatry Group. Our doctors 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 office located in Flint, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What Are Plantar Warts?

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Connect With Us