Those rough, grainy bumps plaguing the bottoms of your feet are probably plantar warts, annoying interlopers caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Plantar warts are pretty common, affecting up to 10% of children and adolescents. But don't let their commonplace nature or their small size fool you – these unwelcome guests can bring discomfort and make even simple steps feel like walking on pebbles.

The team at Feet First Foot Care Specialists wants to keep you walking without worries, whatever your podiatric problem might be. To serve that goal together, let's demystify these miniature menaces and explore ways to keep your soles smooth and pain-free.

Plantar Wart 101:

• Location, Location, Location: Plantar warts love pressure zones. Look for these rough, flat-topped growths on your heels, the balls of your feet, or near your toes.
• Painful Reminders: While some plantar warts are painless, others announce their presence with tenderness and aches, especially when pressure is applied to them.
• Sneaky Shapeshifters: Plantar warts can take more than one form, appearing as single bumps or clusters sometimes referred to as “mosaics.” Other forms include a variety that features tiny black dots in the center (these are actually clotted blood vessels).

Treatment Troupe:

• Over-the-Counter Options: Salicylic acid pads and gels gently peel away wart layers over time. Remember, patience is key, and results may take weeks.
• Time to Chill: Cryotherapy (freezing) with liquid nitrogen is a quick, in-office option, though repeated treatments might be needed.
• Other options include laser ablation (burning) and injections of medications to boost the immune system's fight against the virus.

Prevention Powerplay:

• Hygiene Heroics: Keeping your feet clean and dry can help prevent the virus from entering through breaks in the skin.
• Shoe Savvy: Avoid ill-fitting shoes that rub against pressure points, creating potential entry points for the virus.
• Personal Space, Please: Don't share towels, nail clippers, or other personal items that could spread the virus.

Don’t wait for plantar warts to go away on their own, and don’t think at-home methods will take care of them. Leave that to us!

Dr. Adam Mucinskas at Feet First Foot Care Specialists can ensure that your plantar warts are removed and stay gone for good. Call our office at 860-632-5499 or click here to schedule your appointment. You can also contact us online.