Planter Warts

Keeping Planter Warts at Bay

There are a number of different kinds of warts. One kind that can be more painful than others is planter warts. What exactly are these warts and how can you deal with them?

Planter Warts

Painful Warts

All kinds of warts share similar traits. Planter warts are differentiated by the location of their growth. They are often found on the soles of the feet. Because of this location, they can cause some pain as the person walks. The pain sensation can be made worse by tight or closed footwear.

Like other warts, planter warts are more common among teens. They are flat but they have distinct boundaries and are slightly raised over the skin. They come in brown or gray and have black specs on the center. Warts on the soles may be less than an inch big. They may however cluster together. Because of their appearance, they can be mistaken for corns. On the flip side, more serious tumor growths may also be mistaken for warts by non-medical experts. Although warts do cause pain and discomfort, they are generally harmless.

Causes

Planter warts, like other warts are also caused by a strain of the human papillomavirus (HPV). This particular virus can be contracted through direct exposure to skin with warts or surfaces carrying the virus. Since warts on the sole are found where they are, it is easy to imagine that the virus can be contracted when one walks barefoot. You may particularly be at risk if you are in the habit of walking barefoot in warm and moist public baths and pools. The virus can enter through small skin cuts.

Treatment of Planter Warts

Many individuals choose to have planter warts treated because of the pain that they cause. This is despite the fact that these warts are not very harmful. Treatment of warts on the soles can consist of such varied methods as application of non-prescription wart cream, application of castor oil and the use of duct tape for several days. Some individuals however do not recommend treatment without the doctor’s approval. This is simply because treating your own warts by yourself may worsen your wart condition and may even damage surrounding skin.

Planter warts can be treated by skin or foot doctors. They may recommend ointments or they may use minor surgical procedures.

Although planter warts may disappear after treatment, they may not always stay away. It is important to understand that HPV can be quite resistant and may lie dormant in your skin even after treatment. Warts may therefore reappear some time after treatment.

Prevention

If you do not want to get planter warts, you should avoid walking barefoot especially in moist, public places. As a general rule, it also makes a lot of sense not to share towels, socks, shoes and foot care tools with anyone. You should also keep your feet and footwear clean and dry. Be especially careful if you have a cut on your foot.

You don’t have to suffer from planter warts. You can protect your feet from them by practicing proper foot care.