Plantar warts, caused by a contagious virus, are small skin growths commonly found on the soles of the feet. Unpleasant and sometimes painful, plantar warts are usually benign, but complications can cause issues. Identifying a painful plantar wart early is crucial to know when to seek treatment.
Identify the wart on the foot
Plantar warts appear as either a single plantar wart (myrmecia) or a mosaic plantar wart (multiple warts).
Myrmecia is the most common and painful form, characterized by:
- A fairly deep lesion
- A horn ring
- Small black spots in the center
- Episodic bleeding
Mosaic plantar warts spread over a larger skin area, appear on the surface layer, and may include several wart-like patches, but usually cause less discomfort.
If you have plantar warts, especially if they multiply or grow, it is advised to consult a healthcare professional. Severe pain affecting daily activities requires a clinic visit.
Under what conditions can a plantar wart become dangerous?
In healthy individuals, plantar warts are generally harmless and respond to traditional treatments. However, certain groups face higher complication risks, including people with diabetes or neuropathy, older adults, those with compromised immune systems, history of infections, very dry skin, or excessive sweating.
The main danger is infection from open lesions exposed to bacteria or fungal infections, leading to complications such as diabetic foot lesions, athlete’s foot, nail fungus, abscesses, and cellulitis. Prompt treatment is vital once infection symptoms appear.
When should you consult a podiatrist?
Warning signs requiring podiatrist consultation include:
- Redness and swelling around the wart
- Foul-smelling discharge
- Greenish liquid drainage
- Toenail deformation
- Warts spreading on the foot
If conventional treatments fail, a podiatrist can offer alternative therapies such as prescription medications, Cantharone treatment, Bleomycin injections, laser therapy, minor foot surgery, liquid nitrogen treatment, or foot care.
PiedRéseau: Podiatry clinics that help you treat plantar warts
Plantar warts often resolve without intervention, but podiatrist consultation is recommended for those at risk or with painful or recurring warts.
Infections can lead to serious complications, so don’t delay seeking help. Contact your PiedRéseau clinic for advice and treatment options for plantar warts.