Plantar Warts: What You Need to Know

Plantar warts are small, rough growths that typically appear on the soles of the feet. The word planta in Latin means “sole of the foot” and we refer to the foot warts as Plantar warts or Plantar Verrucae more specifically! These plantar warts are caused by a specific type of HPV that infects the skin. This virus thrives in warm, moist environments, making the feet a prime target.

While HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a virus that can cause various health issues, including certain types of cancer, it's important to understand that not all HPV infections lead to visible symptoms like warts. Warts, on the other hand, are skin growths caused by specific types of HPV. These warts can appear on different parts of the body, including the hands, feet (plantar warts), and genitals (genital warts). It's crucial to note that having HPV doesn't necessarily mean you'll develop warts, and many people with HPV infections remain asymptomatic!

Different Types of Warts and Their Numbers

Warts are skin growths caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Different types of warts are categorized by numbers, which correspond to specific strains of the HPV virus. Here are some common types:

• Common warts are small, rough, flesh-colored or brown bumps that typically appear on the hands, fingers, knees, and elbows, often caused by HPV types 2 and 4.
• Plantar warts are hard, flat-topped growths found on the soles of the feet, usually caused by HPV types 1, 2, and 4.
• Flat warts are smooth, flat-topped, flesh-colored or slightly brown lesions commonly found on the face, back of hands, and knees, often caused by HPV types 3, 10, and 28.
• Filiform warts are long, thin, finger-like projections that often appear on the face, neck, and eyelids, typically caused by HPV types 2 and 28.
• Genital warts are small, fleshy growths in the genital area, anus, or mouth, caused by specific types of HPV that primarily affect the genital area.

Why the numbers? The numbers associated with HPV types are used to classify different strains of the virus. These numbers help researchers and healthcare providers understand the specific characteristics of each strain, including its potential to cause different types of warts or other health issues.

Are Plantar Warts Contagious?

Yes, plantar warts are contagious. They are caused by a specific type of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which can spread through direct contact with infected skin. This is why it's important to avoid touching warts, especially your own.

How can plantar warts spread?

• Direct contact: Touching an infected wart, especially with bare feet, can spread the virus.
• Indirect contact: Sharing towels, shoes, or other personal items with an infected person can increase the risk of transmission.
• Autoinoculation: Scratching a wart can spread the virus to other parts of your body.

Prevention Tips:

• Avoid walking barefoot in public areas: This includes locker rooms, swimming pool areas, and gym floors.
• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently, especially after touching a wart.
• Don't pick at or scratch your warts: This can spread the virus.
• Avoid sharing personal items: Don't share towels, shoes, or other personal items with others, especially if you have a wart.

Treatment Options for Plantar Warts:

• Over-the-counter treatments: Freezing & salicylic acid is a common ingredient in wart removal products over the counter. These are generally ineffective if the wart has been there for an extended period, please keep that in mind! 
• In-office procedures: Dr. Arya does a combination of debridement (removing the callused tissue to expose the wart), with medication application ranging from acids to blistering agents, and often recommends a home treatment for the patient to quickly resolve the problem. 

In conclusion, plantar warts can be a persistent and bothersome foot condition. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, they can be successfully eliminated. If you're experiencing any symptoms of plantar warts, Arya Foot & Ankle is here to help! We're open at lunch time and on Saturdays for busy schedules. Schedule a consultation online at www.aryafootandankle.com or call us at 602-309-8788.

One of the main references we used for this article is: American Academy of Dermatology Association. Warts: Overview (https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/warts-overview). Reviewed on 11/27/2024.

Author

Dr. Shylaja Arya Dr. Arya is the owner of Arya Foot & Ankle, a podiatry practice that serves the greater Phoenix area with same day, Saturday, and lunch time appointments. She is a level 500 yoga instructor, tennis player, dog mom and shoe lover!