By Gillian 
Warts, those small, rough growths on the skin, can be both unsightly and uncomfortable. Commonly caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), warts are not just a cosmetic concern but can also interfere with daily activities, especially when they appear on the feet. Podiatry offers a range of effective treatments tailored to address foot warts, ensuring both relief and prevention.
What Are Warts?
Warts are benign growths that occur when HPV infects the top layer of the skin. The virus gains entry through tiny cuts or breaks, often thriving in warm, moist environments like communal showers, pools, and gyms. Plantar warts, specifically, appear on the soles of the feet and can grow inward due to the pressure of walking or standing, causing pain and discomfort.
Symptoms of Plantar Warts
Plantar warts often present unique characteristics, including:
- A rough, grainy texture.
- Small black dots (clotted blood vessels) within the wart.
- Localised tenderness or pain, especially when walking or standing.
If left untreated, plantar warts can multiply or form clusters known as mosaic warts, complicating treatment and exacerbating discomfort.
Why Seek Podiatric Care for Warts?
While over-the-counter remedies are readily available, they may not always be effective, particularly for stubborn or recurrent warts. Podiatrists specialise in the health of the feet and lower limbs, offering targeted and professional treatments for warts. Seeking expert care ensures accurate diagnosis and access to advanced therapies that go beyond standard treatments.
Podiatry Treatment Options
Podiatrists employ several evidence-based approaches to treat warts effectively:
- Debridement
- This involves removing the thickened skin covering the wart to reduce discomfort and allow treatments to penetrate more effectively.
- Cryotherapy
- A common and effective treatment where liquid nitrogen is applied to freeze the wart. Multiple sessions may be required depending on the wart’s size and depth.
- Salicylic Acid Applications
- Podiatrists can apply stronger concentrations of salicylic acid than those available over the counter, ensuring better results.
- Laser Therapy
- This advanced technique uses focused light to destroy the blood supply to the wart, leading to its eventual disappearance.
- Needling
- A newer approach where the wart is punctured multiple times under local anaesthetic to stimulate the body’s immune response to fight the virus.
- Surgical Excision
- For particularly large or persistent warts, surgical removal may be recommended.
Preventing Warts
Prevention is always better than cure. To minimise the risk of developing warts, consider the following tips:
- Wear protective footwear in communal areas like gyms and pools.
- Keep your feet clean and dry.
- Avoid sharing socks, shoes, or towels.
- Treat any cuts or abrasions on your feet promptly.
- Strengthen your immune system through a healthy diet and lifestyle.
When to See a Podiatrist
If you have a wart that:
- Causes pain or discomfort.
- Does not respond to over-the-counter treatments.
- Grows larger or multiplies.
- Interferes with your daily activities.
It is time to consult a podiatrist. Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure faster recovery. For expert wart removal services, visit www.cbrpodiatry.com.au.
Expertise You Can Trust
Canberra’s wart removal clinics are staffed by qualified professionals who specialise in skin health and podiatry. Their patient-focused approach ensures treatments are not only effective but also tailored to your unique needs.
By addressing warts promptly and professionally, you can enjoy clear, healthy skin and renewed confidence. Don’t let warts hold you back—consult a Canberra wart removal clinic today to explore your options and begin your journey to recovery
