What are Warts?
Warts are small growths on the skin caused by a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Although frequently painless on other parts of the body, warts on the feet tend to grow inwards due to the pressure exerted on them. This causes pain and discomfort, particularly when the patient places weight on their feet. Warts typically present as a rough cauliflower-like surface with small black dots.
As warts can spread easily from one part of the body to another, or from person to person, they should be taken seriously and addressed promptly when found. Our podiatrists have found that the longer a wart has been present on the body, the harder it is to eradicate.
Doesn’t HPV cause cancer?
While certain strains of the HPV virus can lead to increased risks of cancer, the strains of the virus that cause plantar warts have not been associated with the cancer-causing strains of the virus. While spontaneous disappearance of warts does occur, plantar warts typically last for a long time, with some patients suffering from them for years without any improvement. This causes the patient discomfort and pain which could have been avoided with prompt intervention.
Prevention
There are ways to prevent wart occurrence such as:
- Wearing sandals or slippers when using communal areas (showers, gyms, poolside).
- Attending to wounds on the foot promptly.
- Seeking prompt intervention for development of skin lesions.
- Keeping skin hydrated and supple.
What options are available?
Wart lesion care will be offered based on the location and size of the warts. During consultation, your podiatrist will determine the swiftest and most effective approach. Our podiatrists utilize two main strategies in clinic to eradicate wart tissues.
Cryotherapy
- Liquid nitrogen freezes the wart tissue
- Blistering is common
- Some pain following the session
- Multiple sessions required, typically 2-6 sessions for resolution
- Approx. 3-5 days between sessions
- Safe during pregnancy
Wart Needling
- 1x time session required for majority of cases
- Minimal downtime
- Activates the body’s natural immune system
- Painless
Who is this therapy suitable for?
Your podiatrist will be able to identify if podiatric care is suitable for you following a thorough consultation of your medical history and lifestyle. Once your podiatrist has identified the infection, they will proceed with the most suitable procedure. Wart needling is highly effective and safe for all children and adults, except during pregnancy.
