02/17/2025
What are Plantar Warts?
Foot warts (Plantar Warts) are benign skin growths caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection that usually appear on the soles of the feet. Due to pressure on the soles of the feet, plantar warts may be pressed deeper into the skin, causing pain or discomfort.
Characteristics of foot warts
Location: usually found on the soles of the feet, especially on the weight-bearing areas of the heel or the ball of the foot.
Appearance:
The surface is rough and cauliflower-like.
There may be small black spots in the center (clots in the capillaries).
The surrounding skin may be thickened (callus-like changes).
Sensation:
Pressure: Pain triggered by pressure when standing or walking.
Discomfort: persistent friction may lead to inflammation.
Solitary Wart:
Usually a single isolated wart.
May grow or spread to form multiple small warts.
Mosaic Wart:
A collection of small warts that form a mosaic pattern.
More common in immunocompromised people and more difficult to treat.
Virus source: HPV (commonly found in moist environments such as public pools, bathrooms and gyms).
Route of transmission:
Direct contact: contact with warts or skin of an infected person.
Indirect contact: contact with contaminated surfaces (e.g., floors, towels, shoes and socks).
Risk factors:
Broken skin or small wounds (increases chance of virus invasion).
Moist environments (sweaty feet or non-breathable shoes).
Keep feet dry: change socks often and choose breathable shoes.
Avoid going barefoot: especially in public areas such as swimming pools and locker rooms.
Treat wounds promptly: avoid skin cracks or injuries.
Improve immunity: Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle to strengthen the body's resistance to viruses.
