Plantar Warts are abnormal skin growths that are commonly located at the bottom of the feet. These warts are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus or commonly referred to as HPV. These warts can also be found in children. Contrary to everyone’s belief, not all warts are malignant. Plantar warts do not cause nor is an indication for cancer. Plantar warts eventually disappear after a year or two. However, plantar warts may cause can be a source of irritation or pain. Requiring the expertise of a podiatrist for treating the condition.
There are two kinds of plantar warts:
· Solitary wart – this involves the appearance of a single wart. Over time it usually grows in size and even increase in number.
· Mosaic warts – a group of warts in close proximity with each other. This type of wart is harder to treat compared to its solitary counterpart.
The doctors at Long Island Foot and Ankle Group are podiatrists who specializes in diagnosing and treating plantar warts. Consulting with a podiatrist is recommended for any abnormal skin growth in the feet.
How do plantar warts look like?
Plantar warts can be described as soft or grainy growths that appear at the bottom of the feet. It may appear individually or in clusters. This are usually small, but some plantar warts grow bigger than usual. Due to the pressure of walking, these plantar warts look flat compared to palmar warts that stick up above the skin. This pressure thus causes plantar warts to grow inward beneath the hard, thick layer of the skin.
How do you get plantar warts?
Plantar warts can be easily transmitted. It can spread directly by personal contact or indirectly when a person with plantar warts uses a public shower without wearing shoes. This is transmitted to the next person when their feet come in contact with the floor. There is also a much higher risk of being infected if a person has a skin breakage or wound.
A person’s risk of getting plantar warts varies. Those with weak immune systems are more susceptible of acquiring plantar warts compared to those with a healthy immune system.
Diagnosis and treatment
Podiatrist are medical foot experts who are best qualified for diagnosing and treating people with plantar warts. This makes it essential that you consult with these health professionals if you believe that you are suffering from plantar warts.
Even though most plantar warts eventually clear up on its own, this could be a source of embarrassment and pain for many. Podiatrists are specialists who can provide treatment for this skin condition. Removing plantar warts can be done through laser therapy, cryotherapy or surgery.
At Long Island Foot and Ankle Group with offices located in Valley Stream and Lake Success, we specialize in helping people with plantar warts. To schedule an appointment phone Valley Stream (516) 825-4070 or Lake Success (516) 327-0074.