This Summer, we’ve seen a rise in patients presenting at the clinic with warts on their feet & toes, also known as Plantar Warts or the technical term Verruca Pedis.
We sat down with our Podiatrist Mitchell Podhajski for an interview and asked him all about warts to answer some frequently asked questions!
There are some common misconceptions that warts can only affect certain age groups. The range of clients presenting in our clinic shows this is not the case – children, school kids, millennials, middle aged, elderly patients & people from all walks of life! Warts don’t discriminate! And there’s nothing to be embarrassed about.
Mitch is here to tell us more!
Q: So you’ve seen a rise in warts this Summer?
Mitch: Yes! There’s been a noticeable spike! Last week I had about four wart treatments back-to-back! It’s quite rare for that to happen! And we’ve been seeing them in such a range of people too. The weather isn’t helping. And I think maybe people are going to the pool more.
Q: Tell us, what exactly are foot warts?
Mitch: Foot warts, also known as Plantar Warts or Verruca Pedis, are non-cancerous growths on the skin of your feet caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus enters through small cuts or breaks in the skin, usually when your feet are exposed to contaminated surfaces such as public showers or swimming pools. These warts typically appear on the soles of your feet and can be flat or raised, sometimes causing pain when walking.
Q: How do you get warts on your feet, what are the most common places to pick them up?
Mitch: Warts can appear anywhere on the body. You can get warts on your feet and toes through direct contact with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which thrives in warm, moist environments. Public places that are damp or humid, such as swimming pools, locker rooms, and communal showers, are the most common areas to pick up HPV. Wearing flip-flops or sandals in these spaces can help protect your feet. If the virus enters your skin through small cuts, abrasions, or weak areas, it can cause warts to develop.
Q: Who is most likely to get foot warts?
Mitch: While anyone can get plantar warts, they are more common in children and teenagers, as well as those with weakened immune systems, such as individuals undergoing chemotherapy or with autoimmune conditions. However, warts can affect anyone who comes into contact with HPV in public spaces. We’ve really seen a whole bunch of people & ages presenting with warts lately. Don’t think that it only affects kids!
Q: How can I tell if I have a foot wart?
Mitch: Plantar warts are typically rough and hard with black dots in the centre. They can also cause discomfort, especially when pressure is applied. If you notice a painful growth on the bottom of your foot, it’s best to visit a Podiatrist to confirm whether it’s a wart or something else, like a blister.
Q: What are the treatment options for foot warts?
Mitch: Treatments vary depending on the severity of the wart. At Talaria, one of our Podiatrists may apply a strong salicylic acid solution in the clinic, which is the most common treatment option. This is applied over a few visits. There is also laser therapy, or surgical removal. These treatments aim to remove the wart and reduce the chances of recurrence.
Q: Are there any risks to leaving a foot wart untreated?
Untreated warts can grow larger and cause more pain, especially when pressure is applied while walking. They can also spread to other areas of your foot or to other people. If left untreated, they can become infected or result in complications.
Q: Can foot warts be prevented?
Mitch: Warts are contagious, but you can reduce your risk by wearing sandals or flip-flops in public areas like pools and locker rooms, keeping your feet clean and dry, and avoiding direct contact with warts on other people.
Q: Should I see a Podiatrist for my foot wart?
Mitch: If your wart is painful, doesn’t respond to home treatments, or is affecting your ability to walk or exercise, seeing a Podiatrist is recommended. We can offer more targeted treatments to remove the wart and help prevent it from returning. I don’t really recommend people try at home treatments; the chance of success is higher & quicker if you see us!
So there you have it! Warts are nothing to be ashamed of, can affect anyone, and can be picked up easily – even just from enjoying a day at the pool! If you have warts, or think you might have them, and want them treated or removed professionally & safely by one of our caring Podiatrists in Thornbury, you can Book Online or Call Us on 9480 4935 to book wart removal treatment at our clinic.