Plantar warts, medically termed Verruca plantaris, are common skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV. These warts typically appear on the soles of the feet, often in areas subjected to pressure or friction, such as the heels or balls of the feet. Plantar warts often manifest as small, rough, grainy lesions with black dots, or wart seeds, scattered throughout. These black dots are actually tiny blood vessels. While plantar warts are usually harmless, they can cause discomfort or pain, especially when walking or standing. The HPV virus enters the body through small cuts or breaks in the skin, making individuals who frequently walk barefoot in communal areas more susceptible to infection. Treatment options for plantar warts range from remedies like salicylic acid patches or freezing kits to medical procedures performed by podiatrists. Seeking prompt treatment is essential to alleviate symptoms and prevent the spread of plantar warts to other areas of the feet or other individuals. If you have a plantar wart, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer the best treatment option for you.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Vivian C. Iwu, DPM from Choice Podiatry Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Marietta, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Morton's neuroma, a common foot condition, occurs when a nerve in the ball of the foot becomes thickened and inflamed, leading to pain and discomfort. This condition typically affects the area between the third and fourth toes but can also occur between other toes. The exact cause of Morton's neuroma is not always clear, but it often develops due to repetitive stress or irritation on the nerve, such as wearing tight or high-heeled shoes that compress the forefoot. Activities that involve repetitive pressure on the ball of the foot, such as running or participating in high-impact sports, can also contribute to the development of Morton's neuroma. Additionally, foot deformities like bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet may increase the risk. Understanding the underlying causes of Morton's neuroma is important for effective management and prevention strategies, which may include wearing supportive footwear, using orthotic inserts, and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Vivian C. Iwu, DPM of Choice Podiatry Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Marietta, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.