Your Podiatrist Can Treat Your Plantar Warts

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A plantar wart is a small growth on the body caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and commonly found on the foot's sole, especially at the heel. Typically, a wart is not much more than a nuisance, but the virus that causes them is highly contagious. The best way to keep warts from multiplying and spreading is with the professional treatment provided by an expert foot doctor like Anne Arundel County podiatrists Dr. James M. McKee and Dr. Adam Weaver.

Do you know how to spot a plantar wart? Look for symptoms including:

  • a small, hard, flat, circular growth, particularly on a weight-bearing area of the foot.

  • discomfort wearing shoes, standing, walking, or running.

  • thick, scaly skin that looks like a small callus.

  • black, pin-prick-sized spots. Known colloquially as “wart seeds,” these are tiny burst blood vessels.

The virus that causes warts thrives in moist, warm environments. You can reduce your risk of becoming infected with HPV and developing plantar warts with a few simple steps:

  • Avoid going barefoot in public. Wear sandals in hotel rooms and public showers, and on pool decks.

  • Insist on excellent hygiene at the nail salon. Bring your tools and ask that they use a disposable basin liner for your pedicure.

  • Vary your footwear and spray your shoes and sneakers with antimicrobial spray periodically.

If you develop a wart, don’t touch it, don’t pick at it, and don’t try any of the at-home treatments you might read about online. At best, these are ineffective. At worst, they can lead to injury and infection. Call your podiatrist for examination and painless treatment.

Are you worried about plantar warts, or do you have another concern about the health and wellness of your feet, ankles, or lower legs? Call the friendly Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A. staff at 410-224-4448 or click here to schedule an appointment with James M. McKee, DPM, FACFAS, and Adam Weaver, DPM, in our modern, comfortable office on Old Solomons Island Road today. Our doctors will conduct a thorough examination, arrive at a specific and accurate diagnosis, then work with you to create an effective and individualized plan to resolve your issue and get you back on your feet as quickly as possible.

Plantar WartsPodiatry Group of Annapolisplantar warts, podiatrist, HPV, foot infections