Plantar Wart Treatment in Alexandria, VA
Plantar warts can be extremely uncomfortable, making every step feel like you’re walking on a stone. At Landmark Foot & Ankle Center in Alexandria, VA , our podiatrists diagnose and remove plantar warts with effective treatments, from topical medications and immune-stimulating injections to minor in-office procedures.
Book OnlineWhat Are Plantar Warts?
Plantar warts are small, rough growths that appear on the soles of the feet, most often on the heels and balls of the feet. Unlike warts elsewhere on the body, plantar warts are pushed inward by the pressure of walking, which is why they can be so painful. While plantar warts aren’t a serious health threat, they can cause irritation, grow larger, spread, and become unsightly.
What Causes Plantar Warts?
Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). The strains that cause plantar warts enter the body through tiny cuts or breaks in the skin on the bottom of the feet, often in warm, moist environments like locker rooms, pool decks, and shared showers. Warts may not appear until months after contact with the virus. Some clear up on their own, while others require treatment to eliminate the growth and discomfort.
What Do Plantar Warts Look Like?
- Small, grainy, fleshy bumps on the sole of the foot
- Tiny black dots (clotted blood vessels) at the center
- Hard, thickened skin or callus over a well-defined spot
- Pain or tenderness when walking or standing
- Single warts or clusters called mosaic warts
Plantar warts can be mistaken for corns or calluses, so a professional diagnosis is important. If you also have corns from a hammertoe or bunion, we can treat those too.
When to See a Podiatrist
Visit Landmark Foot & Ankle Center if your wart is painful, bleeds, changes in appearance, keeps coming back, or interferes with your normal activities. You should also seek care promptly if you have diabetes, neuropathy, or another condition that affects your immune system or circulation. Never try to cut or burn off a wart at home, as this can lead to infection or a non-healing wound that requires wound care.
Plantar Wart Treatment Options
- Salicylic acid: a peeling medication that gradually removes layers of the wart
- Topical bleomycin: a strong option for warts that persist or don’t respond to other treatments
- Candida antigen injections: stimulate your immune system to fight the virus that causes warts
- Minor surgical removal: a minimally invasive outpatient procedure for deeper warts
Minimally invasive wart removal displaces far less tissue than traditional techniques, which can mean faster healing and a lower risk of infection. You can return home the same day and resume normal activities quickly.
Preventing Plantar Warts
Wear sandals in public showers and pool areas, keep your feet clean and dry, avoid touching warts, and don’t share towels or shoes. Children and teens are especially prone to plantar warts, and our podiatrists care for patients of all ages. Learn about other foot conditions we treat, including foot pain and ingrown toenails, or explore our full podiatry services.
Plantar Wart FAQs
What causes plantar warts?
Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which enters through tiny breaks in the skin on the bottom of the feet.
Are plantar warts contagious?
Yes. The virus can spread through direct contact and shared surfaces like locker rooms, showers, and pool decks.
How can I tell a plantar wart from a callus?
Plantar warts often have tiny black dots and interrupt the normal skin lines, while calluses do not. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis.
Will plantar warts go away on their own?
Some do, but many persist for months or years and can spread. Painful or stubborn warts should be treated.
What is the most effective treatment for plantar warts?
The best treatment depends on the wart’s size, depth, and history. Options include salicylic acid, topical bleomycin, Candida antigen injections, and minor surgical removal.
Does plantar wart removal hurt?
Most treatments cause minimal discomfort. Surgical removal is performed with local anesthesia.
Should people with diabetes treat warts at home?
No. People with diabetes should always see a podiatrist, since at-home treatments can cause wounds that heal slowly.
Get Rid of Painful Plantar Warts
Effective wart removal is just an appointment away. Call (703) 370-2313 or request an appointment online with Landmark Foot & Ankle Center in Alexandria, VA .
