Struggling with warts? 🦶 Check out our latest article where we dive into effective treatment options and the challenges podiatrists face in managing these persistent growths. 👣 #Podiatry #FootHealth #Warts #TreatmentOptions #FFLC

Dr. Drew Chapman, DPM, FACFAS
Kevin Lam, DPM, FACFAS

Warts, those small, often bothersome growths on the skin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), can be a persistent issue for many individuals, particularly when they appear on the feet. As a podiatrist, treating warts is a common aspect of my practice, and I have encountered various approaches that can effectively manage and eliminate these stubborn growths. While warts may seem like a minor inconvenience to some, they can cause significant discomfort, especially when located on weight-bearing areas like the soles of their feet. The challenge lies not only in removing the wart but also in preventing its recurrence, which often requires a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each patient’s needs.

Understanding Warts

Warts on the feet, known as plantar warts, typically appear on weight-bearing areas such as the soles and toes. They can be uncomfortable, causing pain or discomfort especially when walking or standing. Due to the nature of their location, they can also be challenging to treat without professional assistance.

Key Characteristics:

Caused by HPV entering through tiny cuts or breaks in the skin.
Often have a rough surface and may appear as small, grainy growths.
Commonly found on the sole of the foot, sometimes mistaken for calluses or corns.

Treatment Approaches

Podiatrists employ a variety of treatment methods depending on the severity and location of the warts. The choice of treatment is guided by factors such as the size, number, and persistence of the warts, as well the patient’s pain tolerance and overall health. Since plantar warts can be particularly resilient, often deeply roted in the skin, a combination of treatments might be necessary to completely eradicate them. Below are some of the most effective treatment options used by podiatrists.

1. Topical Treatments:

– Salicylic acid: Widely used to break down the wart tissue gradually. Patients are often prescribed higher concentrations that over-the-counter products for effectiveness.
– Cantharidin: A chemical compound applied to the wart to create a blister under which the wart loosens and can be removed.

2. Cryotherapy:
Freezing the wart will liquid nitrogen can destroy the tissue and allow it to fall off over time. Multiple sessions may be needed.

3. Surgical Options:

Curettage: Scraping the wart off with a sharp, spoon-shaped instrument (curette). This is often done after cryotherapy to remove the dead tissue.
Laser Treatment: Using a laser to destroy the blood vessels feeding the wart, effectively killing it.

4. Immunotherapy:
Injection therapy to stimulate the body’s immune response to fight the virus.

Challenges in Treatment

Treating warts can be challenging due to several factors, warts can recur even after seemingly successful treatment due to the virus’ ability to remain dormant in the skin and re-emerge later. The thick, tough skin on the soles of the feet makes it difficult for treatments to penetrate deeply enough to eliminate the wart completely. Additionally, some patients may experience pain or sensitivity during and after treatments like cryotherapy or surgical removal, which can deter them from completing follow-up sessions or lead them to discontinue treatment prematurely.

Moreover, warts on weight-bearing areas are subjected to constant pressure and friction, which can cause them to spread or worsen if not managed carefully. This pressure can also increase discomfort, making it harder for patients to tolerate everyday activities. In some cases, multiple treatments are required, leading to patient frustration, especially when results are not immediate. The psychological impact of persistent warts should not be underestimated either, as patients may feel self-conscious, particularly if the warts are large or numerous.

Podiatrists must balance the aggressiveness of treatment with the patient’s comfort and ability to heal, often necessitating a combination of approaches and long-term commitment to monitoring and follow-up care.

Patient Education and Prevention

In additions to treatment, educating patients about wart prevention is crucial. Encouraging patients to keep their feet clean and dry helps prevent warts from spreading. Advising against barefoot walking, especially in communal areas like locker rooms and showers, reduces the risk of exposure to HPV. Emphasizing the importance of proper footwear that fits well and provides adequate support can also help prevent warts.

As a podiatrist, treating warts involves a multifaceted approach that combines clinical expertise with patient education. While warts can be persistent, effective treatment options are available to alleviate discomfort and reduce recurrence. By understanding the nature of warts and employing appropriate treatment methods, podiatrists play a crucial role in helping patients achieve healthier, wart-free feet.

In conclusion, managing warts requires patience and persistence, both from the podiatrist and the patient. Through comprehensive treatment plans tailored to individual needs, podiatrists can effectively combat warts and restore comfort and confidence to their patient’s feet.

If you have warts and want more information about treatment options, you can contact Dr. Chapman’s office at (239) 430-3668 (FOOT) or visit www.NaplesPodiatrist.com to schedule an examination.

Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has 9 convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties. Offering pediatric to geriatric family care: Ingrown Toenails, Heel Pain, Bunions, Foot / Ankle Arthritis Pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Foot / Ankle Surgery, Custom Orthotics, and Diabetic Wound Care. In office X-rays, ultrasounds, and minor surgical suite exam rooms. Practice powered by EMR and advanced technologies. Home of the Lam Minimally Invasive No-Scar Bunion Surgery! Come Discover Why Patients Love Our 5-Star Foot & Ankle Care! Same Day Appointments! Easy Online Appointment Scheduling.