A common problem we see at Foot & Ankle Specialists, PC is the plantar wart. Known in medical terms as verruca vulgaris, warts are caused by a viral infection. We see it more often in children and adolescents than adults but it can occur in patients of any age. The virus is spread by direct contact and thrives in moist areas. Ways to avoid contracting warts are:

• Not going barefoot in public places that are normally damp or exposed to sweaty feet, such as gyms, community pools and locker rooms
• Avoiding sharing socks or shoes with others
• Keeping feet clean and dry
• Cleaning showers frequently if a member of the family has a wart
• Changing socks often if your feet tend to be very sweaty

If despite your best efforts, you end up with a wart, our board certified foot and ankle surgeons, Dr. Scott E. Hughes, Dr. Greg P. Vogt, Dr. Christine I. Tumele and Dr. Matthew W.E. Lewin will most likely be able to diagnose it by sight—thickened skin with black pinpoints in the center is the telltale appearance of a plantar wart. The podiatrist will then determine the best treatment plan for you. Options for removing warts include:

• Laser removal
• Freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen
• Topical acids
• Surgical excision

There are pros and cons to each type of removal process. Some are more successful in one treatment but also have a greater risk of infection and require more time off your feet. Other methods may be slower and require several treatments but are less uncomfortable and do not restrict your activities. Your foot doctor will ask about your job and lifestyle and will also take into account whether you have one or multiple warts.

Having your wart treated by the foot doctor will be more successful than using over the counter treatments. Left untreated, warts can spread to other parts of the foot or body. If you or your child has a wart, contact us to make an appointment at our Monroe or Lambertville office today and find out the best way to get rid of it.