A GUIDE TO PREVENTING THE SPREAD OF PLANTAR WARTS

PLANTAR WARTS CAN BE A PAINFUL AND ANNOYING SKIN CONDITION THAT DEVELOPS ON THE SOLE OF YOUR FOOT. IN THIS GUIDE, WE WILL DISCUSS WHAT PLANTAR WARTS ARE AND HOW TO PREVENT THE SPREAD OF PLANTAR WARTS.

What are plantar warts? 

Plantar warts can be a painful and annoying skin condition that develops on the sole of your foot. Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), plantar warts are contagious and can spread quickly in communal areas such as swimming pools, locker rooms or showers. They typically appear as hard, grainy growths with small black dots on the surface and may cause discomfort when walking or standing for extended periods. 

While plantar warts are not considered a serious health issue, they can be persistent and difficult to treat without proper care. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, prevention tips and treatments available for plantar warts so you can learn how to manage this common foot ailment. 

How are athletes prone to plantar warts? 

Plantar warts may seem like a minor inconvenience, but for athletes and gym-goers, they can have a significant impact on physical progress. These unsightly growths can appear on the soles of the feet and cause discomfort during physical activity. Additionally, HPV thrives in warm and moist environments such as communal showers and locker rooms. Therefore, without adequate foot protection, micro-trauma can occur at the bottom of your feet which increases the risk of viral contraction and unknowingly pass on the skin infection to others. 

For those who frequent these shared spaces, plantar warts can present a significant obstacle to their physical progress. Athletes rely on their bodies to perform at their best, but plantar warts can make even basic movements painful and difficult.  

Prevention of Plantar Wart

  • Avoid walking barefoot
  • Don’t share shoes, socks, towels, or any other products with other people! The last thing you want to do is spread the virus to others or contract it from using someone else’s belongings.
  • Change your shoes and socks daily
  • Keep your feet clean and dry

When to visit a podiatrist 

At Align Foot & Ankle Clinic, Dr. Ho-Ellsworth and her team are dedicated to providing comprehensive foot and ankle care services to patients. Here, at Align, we offer a variety of treatment options including laser treatment, a safe, painless and effective treatment that can be performed in-office and usually covered by insurance.  

If you  or someone you know suffers from painful, warts, give us a call and schedule and appointment with Dr. Ho-Ellsworth for an evaluation, call us at (512) 882-4911 or schedule an appointment here!