Avoiding Plantar Warts

Avoiding Plantar Warts

Find out what you can do to prevent plantar warts from happening to you.

There seem to be a multitude of old wives’ tales that tout interesting and sometimes funny ways to remove warts. However, instead of finding unique ways to get rid of your warts, it’s even better if you can prevent them from happening in the first place. While it can be difficult to avoid the virus that causes plantar warts, there are some measures you can take to try to prevent yourself from coming in contact with this common virus.

What causes plantar warts?

Plantar warts are caused by a virus known as the human papillomavirus (HPV). While these warts are benign, they can be unsightly, uncomfortable and embarrassing. There are several different strains of HPV responsible for producing plantar warts, growths often found on the soles of the feet. However, some people that have HPV may not even develop warts.

How can you prevent exposure to the HPV virus that causes plantar warts?

While it’s difficult to ever be 100 percent protected against getting plantar warts, the best way to not get them is by avoiding contact with HPV. This means not touching warts that either you or someone else may have. Some other tips include:

  • Don’t share towels, shoes or razors with anyone. Remember, someone can still have HPV and not show any visible signs.
  • Always wear shoes in damp, warm and moist areas where the virus may thrive. This includes wearing shoes while using public locker rooms, pools or public showers.
  • Prevent irritation on the bottoms of your feet by wearing the proper shoes. Feet that have broken skin are more susceptible to developing warts.
  • Always dry your feet, particularly after sweating. Wear absorbent socks if you find that your feet sweat frequently.

While plantar warts can be unsightly, they aren’t dangerous. However, if you want to have one removed, talk to your podiatrist about at-­home treatments or come into our office to have it removed professionally.

How are plantar warts treated?

There are some over­the­counter salicylic acid treatments that are effective and safe for removing warts. There are also over­the­counter cryotherapy kits that freeze off these growths. However, these kits are only safe to use on warts that develop on your hands or feet.

If you aren’t sure whether you have warts or if you have been diagnosed with diabetes and you’re dealing with plantar warts, then it’s important to seek the medical advice of your podiatrist. Call us today!