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Plantar Wart Removal How to Identify a Wart & Treat It!
We review plantar warts treatment & removal, how to identify a wart, what causes warts & what is a wart!
Plantar Wart Removal: How To Identify A Wart
A plantar wart, also known as verruca plantaris, is a type of wart that develops on the sole or plantar surface of the foot. It is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), specifically types 1, 2, 4, and 63. Plantar warts can be painful and may cause discomfort while walking or standing.
Causes:
Plantar warts are caused by the HPV virus, which enters the body through small cuts or breaks in the skin. The virus thrives in warm, moist environments such as public swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers. Walking barefoot in these areas can increase the risk of contracting the virus.
Symptoms:
Small, grainy growths on the sole of the foot with a rough, cauliflower-like appearance.
Typically flat or slightly raised with a well-defined border.
May have tiny black dots (clotted blood vessels) on the surface.
Can cause pain or tenderness, especially when pressure is applied.
May develop into a cluster of warts, known as mosaic warts, over time.
Treatment:
Treatment options for plantar warts vary depending on the severity, size, and duration of the wart. Some common treatment methods include:
Over-the-counter treatments: Non-prescription medications containing salicylic acid or lactic acid are available in the form of liquids, gels, pads, or plasters. These products help dissolve and gradually remove the wart over several weeks of consistent application.
Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen is applied to freeze the wart, causing the wart tissue to die and eventually fall off. Cryotherapy can be performed by a healthcare professional or by using over-the-counter freezing kits.
Prescription medications: In some cases, a dermatologist may prescribe stronger medications, such as topical retinoids or immune system modifiers, to treat stubborn or recurrent plantar warts.
Laser therapy: In more severe cases, laser treatment may be used to destroy the wart tissue. This procedure is typically performed by a dermatologist.
Surgical removal: If other treatments have been unsuccessful, surgical removal may be considered. This involves cutting out the wart under local anesthesia. Surgery is usually reserved for large or persistent warts.
Prevention:
To reduce the risk of developing plantar warts or spreading the virus, it’s important to take preventive measures, including:
Avoid walking barefoot in public areas, especially in moist environments like swimming pools or locker rooms.
Keep feet clean and dry.
Wear protective footwear, such as flip-flops or shower shoes, in public areas.
Avoid picking or scratching existing warts, as this can spread the virus.
Do not share towels, socks, or shoes with others.
Kick Pain to the Curb— How To Identify A Wart
Don’t let a plantar wart slow you down. At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist in Howell and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, our expert podiatrists use advanced techniques like cryotherapy, laser therapy, and custom treatment plans to get you back on your feet—quickly and pain-free.
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DISCLAIMER:
Dr. Tomasz Biernacki received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Kent State College of Podiatric Medicine in 2013; he completed his Surgical Reconstructive Foot Surgery & Podiatric Medicine Residency in 2017; he completed 2 separate traveling Fellowships in Diabetic Surgery, Skin Grafting & Nerve Surgery. He is double board certified in Podiatric Medicine and separately in Foot & Ankle Surgery. His use of “doctor” or “Dr.” about himself solely refers to that degree. Dr. Biernacki is a licensed podiatrist in Michigan. This video is for general informational purposes only. It should not be used to self-diagnose and is not a substitute for a medical exam, cure, treatment, diagnosis, prescription, or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Biernacki and you. It would be best if you did not change your health regimen or diet before consulting a physician and obtaining a medical exam, diagnosis, and recommendation. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.
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How to Identify a Wart: Best Treatments, Home Remedies & Recovery Tips
Dealing with a painful bump on the sole of your foot that just won’t go away? You may be facing a plantar wart—a stubborn and often painful skin growth caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Unlike warts on your hands or fingers, plantar warts grow on pressure points like your heel or ball of the foot, often pushing inward and causing significant discomfort when walking.
But the good news is, plantar wart removal is very achievable. Whether you’re trying at-home remedies or seeking professional help, there are multiple effective options to get rid of them safely and prevent them from returning.
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Professional Treatments for Plantar Wart Removal
Cryotherapy (Freezing the Wart)
A podiatrist applies liquid nitrogen to freeze the wart off. This is one of the most common and effective methods but may require a few sessions.Laser Treatment
Laser therapy destroys wart tissue using light energy. It’s precise and often used for warts that don’t respond to other treatments.Cantharidin Application
A blistering agent applied by your doctor that causes the wart to lift and fall off over time.Surgical Removal
Used only in persistent cases, the wart is cut out under local anesthesia. Healing takes a bit longer, and there’s a small risk of scarring.Immunotherapy
This method stimulates your immune system to fight off the HPV virus responsible for the wart.
Home Remedies You Can Try
Salicylic Acid Pads or Gel
These over-the-counter treatments help peel layers of the wart over time. It’s most effective when used daily after soaking the foot.Duct Tape Method
Cover the wart with duct tape for several days, then soak and gently scrape the area. Repeat until the wart disappears.Apple Cider Vinegar Soak
Soak the affected area in diluted apple cider vinegar. The acidity may help break down the wart tissue.Tea Tree Oil
This natural antiseptic has antiviral properties. Dab it on daily, though results vary.
Note: Home remedies can take weeks to show results and may not work for everyone.
Recovery Tips & Wart Prevention
Protect the area with a cushion pad or moleskin to reduce pressure while healing.
Keep your feet dry and clean to prevent further spread.
Avoid walking barefoot in public showers, gyms, or pools to reduce exposure to HPV.
Wear breathable shoes and socks to prevent moisture buildup.
Don’t pick or scratch the wart—this can spread the virus to other areas.
When to See a Podiatrist
If the wart is:
Painful or bleeding
Growing or spreading
Not responding to over-the-counter treatments
Causing discomfort while walking
It’s time to consult a podiatrist.
At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist in Howell and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, our expert podiatric team offers comprehensive plantar wart removal options—tailored to your condition and comfort level.
How To Identify a Wart - First Step Toward Relief
Don’t let a plantar wart affect your stride. Whether you’re an athlete, on your feet all day, or simply tired of the pain—professional help is available. Our team uses cutting-edge treatment to ensure fast recovery and lasting results.
Call Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist today or book your consultation online to get back on your feet—wart-free and pain-free!
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Plantar Wart Removal - How To Identify a Wart FAQs
Cryotherapy (freezing) or laser treatment by a podiatrist is the fastest and most effective option.
Yes, over-the-counter salicylic acid pads, duct tape, and apple cider vinegar are common DIY treatments.
Professional treatments can take 1–3 sessions. Home treatments may take weeks to months.
Yes, especially in communal wet areas like pools and showers.
Sometimes, but it can take months or years—and it may grow or spread.
It depends on the method. Cryotherapy can sting, while laser removal may cause mild discomfort.
It may become larger, multiply, or cause increased foot pain when walking.
Yes—wear shoes in public places, avoid direct contact with warts, and keep feet clean and dry.
Rarely. Surgery is considered only if other methods fail.
Absolutely—especially if the wart is painful, persistent, or affecting your mobility.
