Expert Plantar Wart Treatment in Seattle, WA

by Dr. Hoy

plantar wartsOne of the most common reasons for a visit to a podiatrist is the treatment of plantar warts. Plantar means the bottom of the foot, but warts can appear in other places as well.  There are more than 30 different types of wart viruses. Plantar warts are usually caused by walking barefoot around a swimming pool, on the beach or outdoors where these microscopic viruses are on the ground.

Quick Answer

Plantar warts are a common reason for podiatrist visits, caused by over 30 different types of wart viruses, often contracted by walking barefoot in public areas. Warts on the bottom of the foot are particularly resistant to treatment compared to those elsewhere, partly due to the thicker skin and persistent blood vessel/nerve connections. While over 50 percent of warts spontaneously resolve, Seattle Foot and Ankle Center emphasizes aggressive treatment using a variety of methods. Dr. John Hoy of Seattle Foot and Ankle Center is board certified in the medical and surgical treatment of warts.

Warts are often treated with over-the-counter topical acid creams or patches, duct tape or other home remedies. Warts spontaneously resolve in more than 50 percent of cases according to the literature.

Many pediatricians and dermatologists use liquid nitrogen on other parts of the body, but this painful treatment has a very low success rate on the bottom of the foot.  Warts on the bottom of the foot are much more resistant to treatment than warts on other parts of the body. One reason for this may be due to the skin being thicker on the bottom of the foot.  Blood vessels and nerve endings looping up into the wart, which make them more persistent and more painful.

Dr. John Hoy of Seattle Foot and Ankle Center is board certified in the medical and surgical treatment of warts.

There are many, many treatment options available for warts.  The article above showcases one practice’s algorithm.  We find that aggressive treatment using a variety of methods is effective, even though it may take awhile and can be quite frustrating.

We generally recommend conservative care prior to surgical excision.  This includes topical treatments in combination with sharp debridement by Dr. Hoy in his Seattle, Washington office, taking off the callus buildup.  These treatments include:

  1. High level salicyclic acid to kill the virus by burning them chemically
  2. Zinc sulfate supplements to boost the body’s immune system
  3. Prescription creams with antiviral activity
  4. Cauterizing agents to burn the warts in the office
  5. Freezing used as an adjunct or as an alternative in pregnant or lactating mothers
  6. Surgical excision

In pain?  Don’t wait.  Early treatment leads to faster recovery.  Urgent appointments available.  Read about Conditions We Treat.  Request an Appointment online.  Call: 206-682-8741 or Contact Us.  If you like our content, please link it to your website and Collaborate With Us.  Thank you.

What related foot and ankle topics does Seattle Foot and Ankle Center cover?

    Seattle Foot and Ankle Center covers various related foot and ankle topics, including: Seattle Area Foot and Ankle Injuries Care; Malignant Melanoma of the Foot Treatments in Seattle, WA; Seattle Os Trigonum Syndrome Doctor; and Flat Feet Treatments in Seattle, WA.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 What are plantar warts and how do they develop?

Plantar warts are a common reason for podiatrist visits, caused by one of over 30 different types of wart viruses. They typically appear on the bottom of the foot, often contracted by walking barefoot in places like swimming pools or on beaches where these microscopic viruses are present on the ground.

2 Why are plantar warts on the foot often difficult to treat effectively?

Warts on the bottom of the foot are much more resistant to treatment than warts on other parts of the body, partly due to the thicker skin. Over-the-counter remedies and even liquid nitrogen often have a very low success rate for plantar warts. Blood vessels and nerve endings looping into the wart also contribute to their persistence and pain.

3 What professional treatment options are available for plantar warts at Seattle Foot and Ankle Center?

Dr. Hoy offers aggressive treatment using a variety of methods, including topical treatments in combination with sharp debridement to remove callus buildup. Specific treatments include high-level salicylic acid, zinc sulfate supplements, prescription antiviral creams, cauterizing agents, freezing, and surgical excision.

4 Does Dr. Hoy prioritize conservative care for plantar warts?

Yes, the practice generally recommends conservative care prior to surgical excision for plantar warts. This approach includes various topical treatments and debridement performed in the office. Dr. John Hoy is board-certified in both the medical and surgical treatment of warts.