Plantar warts, or clusters of warts known as mosaic warts, are thickened skin lesions that typically form on the sole of the foot due to contact with the human papillomavirus (HPV). This virus triggers the accumulation of keratin on the skin, leading to the development of plantar warts.

Symptoms of a Plantar Wart

Plantar warts usually appear on the sole of the foot but can occur anywhere on the foot.

• May present as flat and thickened or have a tiny black "dot" at the center, which is a dried blood capillary
• Can feel hard, fleshy, and blend in with the skin color
• Walking might become painful due to the pressure on the wart
• Have the potential to spread and form a cluster of warts known as a mosaic

Plantar Warts Developement

Plantar warts develop when the human papillomavirus (HPV) enters the skin, usually in moist environments like swimming pool areas or locker rooms. Direct contact with the virus, such as walking barefoot in these areas, can lead to infection, especially if there are cracks or weak spots in the skin. Individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk and should avoid walking barefoot in these areas to prevent plantar wart development.

Treating a Plantar Wart

Podiatrists offer efficient, safe, and complete removal of plantar warts using various methods tailored to the wart's stage and the patient's medical history.

• Freezing. Cryotreatment freezes the wart, eventually leading to its elimination.
• Cutting. Curetting or excision involves scraping or cutting out the wart by the podiatrist.
• Peeling. Salicylic acid may be used to safely thin the wart and prompt the removal of infected skin cells.
• Laser Therapy. This non-invasive treatment targets the wart's blood supply, causing it to fall off within a few weeks.

If you think you might have a plantar wart or a group of warts, it's best to see a podiatrist for effective and long-lasting treatment.