Are Plantar Warts Cause for Concern?

Plantar warts are small growths on the soles of your feet, especially in weight-bearing areas like the heels or balls. We see them a lot at Mill Creek Foot & Ankle Clinic, especially in children and young adults.

Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which enters the skin through tiny cuts or cracks. Unlike calluses, which form from repeated friction, plantar warts are viral infections that develop deep within the skin. They often have a thickened layer of skin around them. 

Some of their other common characteristics include:

• A rough or grainy surface
• A small, black pinpoint in the center (these are tiny blood vessels)
• A gray or brownish color
• Pain or tenderness when walking or standing

They can appear as single warts or in clusters, called mosaic warts. Because a virus causes them, they can spread to other areas of your body or to other people, especially in damp environments like locker rooms, pools, and shared showers.

How dangerous are plantar warts?

For most people, plantar warts are more of an annoyance than a serious medical problem. They usually go away on their own over time, but this may take months or even years.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, they may require medical attention:

Persistent or painful warts

If a wart causes pain or discomfort or makes walking difficult, you may want our podiatrist and board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, Joseph Hall, DPM, FACFAS, to take a look.

Bleeding or changes in appearance

Visit us if any wart changes color, grows rapidly, or starts bleeding.

Multiple or recurring warts

If you keep getting new warts or they seem to come back after treatment, we can help.

Weakened immune system

People with weakened immune systems (for example, those with diabetes or undergoing chemotherapy) may be at a higher risk for complications and should see a doctor for evaluation.

Diabetes or nerve damage

If you have diabetes or any condition that affects your feet’s sensitivity, let us examine any foot issues to prevent complications.

Treating plantar warts

If your plantar warts aren’t causing problems, you may choose to let them disappear on their own. But if they become bothersome, you have several treatment options:

Over-the-counter treatments

Medicated pads or solutions containing salicylic acid can help gradually remove warts.

Cryotherapy (freezing)

We can freeze the wart using liquid nitrogen. The cold causes it to blister and eventually fall off.

Laser therapy

This treatment targets the blood supply feeding the wart, causing it to shrink and die.

Prescription medications

Stronger topical treatments or injections help your body fight off the virus.

Preventing plantar warts

Since a virus causes plantar warts, you need to minimize your exposure to HPV. Here are some tips to reduce your risk:

• Wear flip-flops or water shoes in public showers, pools, and locker rooms
• Keep your feet clean and dry
• Avoid sharing shoes, socks, or foot care tools with others
• Do not pick at or scratch warts; this can spread the virus
• Change socks and shoes regularly to prevent moisture buildup

Plantar warts are a common foot problem due to a viral infection, but they’re usually nothing to worry about. With proper care and treatment, we can manage or eliminate them.

If you experience persistent pain, recurring warts, or have underlying health conditions, consult us for expert advice and treatment options. We’re located in Mill Creek, Washington, and serve the surrounding areas of Bothell, Woodinville, Everett, Kirkland, and Lynwood.

Call us at Mill Creek Foot & Ankle Clinic to schedule an appointment or complete the form on our Contact Us page. Your feet will thank you.