Avoiding Plantar Warts

Working out at the gym can be one important way to maintain good physical health.  When exercising in public places, however, there is always an elevated risk of coming into contact with bacteria and viruses that are new to our own personal immune system.  Plantar warts are one of the conditions that might crop up when someone is exposed to warm, humid environments.  Caused by HPV (human papillomavirus), plantar warts appear as hard, callus like areas on the foot.  They can be very painful when even walking around normally.  There are various procedures for this condition that range from surgery to laser treatments; consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment for you.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Legions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, will help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.