What are Plantar Warts and How are They Treated?

What are Plantar Warts and How are They Treated?

Wanting more information on plantar warts? According to Harvard Health, plantar warts are hard, grainy growths that often appear on the heels or balls of your feet. These growths are caused by the HPV virus that is introduced to the body via small wounds in the bottom of one’s feet.

These warts are not considered to be a serious health problem as they usually tend to go away on their own. But, sometimes they stay for weeks or longer, making treatment necessary.

Podiatrists and plantar warts

Looking for a podiatrist to treat your plantar warts? A podiatrist is a medical professional who treats problems associated with the feet, ankles and legs. This includes all disorders and all diseases, as well as any minor problems, like ingrown toenails.

When it comes to treating plantar warts, a podiatrist will first need to perform a thorough evaluation to assess the warts. Once they have properly assessed the size and location of the warts, they will create a treatment plan.

How are plantar warts treated?

The following is a list of some of the more common treatments a podiatrist will perform on their patients when they are suffering from plantar warts.

Topical medications

While there are over-the-counter medications available to treat plantar warts, these options do not work as well as the topical medications provided by an experienced podiatrist. Over-the-counter wart medications may remove some of the warts, but they do not kill the virus, which means the warts will return

Special devices and tools

Electrical or ultrasonic devices can be used to kill the warts. If any parts of the warts are still remaining after this type of treatment, then they will be removed using a curette. Curettage can also be performed without using an electrical or ultrasonic device, which includes cutting away the wart entirely. The patient will receive an anesthetic so they will not feel anything during the process

A laser

Many podiatrists are taking advantage of the new laser treatment technologies that are now available to treat warts. Laser treatment therapy destroys the warts. Because it works so well, it is quickly becoming a preferred treatment option for those who have been diagnosed with plantar warts

Burning or freezing

Acid is a popular option for treating warts. It works by burning them off when the acid is applied to the top of the warts. It may take multiple applications over many weeks in order for the warts to disappear using this treatment option. Liquid nitrogen is another popular option and works by freezing the warts, which causes them to disappear within three to five days

Currently living with plantar warts?

If you currently have plantar warts that have been on your feet for weeks, then treatment is necessary to remove them. Whether you are experiencing minimal pain or a moderate amount of pain, having them removed as soon as possible is recommended. It is very possible that the warts will continue to spread unless treated, which is something that you want to avoid from happening.

Are you considering treatment for plantar warts in the Pocatello area? Get more information at https://www.pocatellopodiatry.com.

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