Plantar Warts (Verrucae) Treatment in Adelaide
Are you dealing with a painful, grainy lump on the bottom of your foot? It could be a plantar wart—a common viral skin condition that can become painful and spread if not treated. At Leading Edge Podiatry, we provide expert diagnosis and treatment for warts on the feet, helping you walk comfortably again.
Not sure if you have a wart or a corn? It may be a corn. Read our ‘Corns Vs Plantar Warts – The Ultimate Guide‘.
What Is a Plantar Wart?
Plantar warts (verrucae pedis) are benign skin growths that appear on the soles of the feet. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which enters through tiny cuts or weak spots in the skin. Warts often develop beneath pressure points such as the heel or ball of the foot, and may take weeks or even months to appear after infection.
These warts are non-cancerous but can become painful and interfere with daily activities if left untreated.
Signs and Symptoms of Plantar Warts
You may have a plantar wart if you notice:
- Small, grainy or rough bumps on the bottom of the foot
- A hard, flat growth with a thickened border and rough texture
- A lesion that interrupts the natural skin lines or ridges
- Pain when squeezing the area or walking
- Small black dots in the centre of the wart (clotted blood vessels)
- A sensation of walking on a pebble or “stone bruise” in the foot
Common Wart Locations
- Heel
- Ball of the foot
- Base of toes
- Under the arch (less common)
How We Treat Plantar Warts
Treatment is based on the size, depth, location, and duration of the wart. The most widely supported treatment in clinical studies is topical salicylic acid, applied regularly to destroy infected skin cells and stimulate immune response.
Our wart treatment options include:
- Topical salicylic acid application
- Topical Silver nitrate application
- Debridement of thickened skin over the wart
- Custom treatment plans depending on your skin sensitivity, age, and medical history
Your podiatrist will discuss how often treatment is needed and give you an estimated time frame based on your individual case.
Risks of Wart Treatment
As with any medical treatment, there are some risks to consider:
- Pain or discomfort during or after treatment (especially with cryotherapy or acid-based methods)
- Ulceration or breakdown of surrounding skin
- Infection, though rare, is possible if post-treatment instructions aren’t followed
- Scarring, though uncommon when treated correctly
We aim to minimise risks through careful treatment selection and provide full aftercare instructions to support safe healing.
Why Choose Leading Edge Podiatry?
At Leading Edge Podiatry, we stay up to date with the latest evidence-based treatments to ensure you receive the most effective care possible. While wart treatment results can vary depending on your immune response and skin type, we guide you through every step with professional care and clear expectations.
❓ Still have questions about warts?
Visit our Warts FAQ page. Our Warts FAQs provide clear answers to the most common questions.
Let’s Get You Back on Your Feet
If you’re unsure whether you have a wart or if it’s becoming painful, seek professional advice early. Warts can spread and become harder to treat if ignored.
👉 Book Online Now
📞 Or call us on 08 7120 6063 to speak with our experienced podiatry team
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