Comprehensive Plantar Warts Treatment

What Are Plantar Warts?

Plantar warts are small, grainy growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) that develop on the soles of the feet. While not immediately dangerous, untreated plantar warts can lead to complications, especially if they grow larger. Large warts can crack or fissure, increasing the risk of infection, particularly in patients with diabetes or poor circulation. Larger, harder warts may cause callus buildup in weight-bearing areas, leading to pain and discomfort associated with calluses or lesions.

Common Symptoms of Plantar Warts

Causes of Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are caused by HPV entering the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions. The virus thrives in warm, moist environments like communal showers, pools, and locker rooms. Larger warts, particularly those on weight-bearing areas, can lead to complications such as callus formation, making the warts harder to treat and more painful.

Challenges of Cryogenic Treatments

Cryogenic treatments, commonly used to freeze warts, tend to be less effective for plantar warts. The thickness of the skin on the soles of the feet makes it difficult for cryogenic treatments to penetrate deeply enough to fully eliminate the wart. This results in diminished efficacy compared to other methods of treatment.

Comprehensive Treatment Options for Plantar Warts

At Fallbrook Podiatry, we offer several comprehensive treatment options for plantar warts, tailored to meet the needs of each patient.

1. Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA)

Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) is an effective chemical peel that dissolves wart tissue over time. Applied during an in-office procedure, TCA gradually breaks down the wart.

Benefits:

• Effective for stubborn warts
• Controlled application in a professional setting
• Requires fewer treatment sessions

2. Electrodesiccation/Hyfrecation

Electrodesiccation/Hyfrecation is a minor surgical procedure that uses an electric current to destroy wart tissue, followed by scraping away the dead cells. This procedure is usually done under local anesthesia. 

Benefits:

• Immediate wart removal
• Minimally invasive procedure
• Effective for large or stubborn warts

3. Laser Treatment

We use the Summit Series Dual-Frequency Laser to target and destroy plantar warts by focusing heat on the affected area. This precise, noninvasive treatment penetrates deep into the tissue to eradicate the wart. This procedure is usually done under local anesthesia. 

Benefits:

• Minimally invasive and precise
• Quick recovery with no downtime
• Ideal for stubborn, difficult-to-reach warts

4. Aldara (Imiquimod)

While Aldara (Imiquimod) is commonly prescribed for warts, it may be less effective on plantar warts due to the thickness of the plantar skin. However, Aldara can be used as an additional treatment in combination with other methods such as chemical, laser, or hyfrecation therapies to boost the body’s immune response to the virus.

Benefits:

• Activates the body’s immune defense
• Best used in combination with other treatments
• Suitable for recurring or difficult-to-treat warts

5. 5-Fluorouracil (5FU)

5-Fluorouracil (5FU) is a topical chemotherapy agent that inhibits wart growth by preventing cell division. It is often combined with other treatments for difficult plantar warts that have not responded to first-line therapies.

Benefits:

• Effective for warts resistant to other treatments
• Can be combined with laser, chemical, or other therapies
• Ideal for recurring or stubborn warts

6. Bleomycin Injections

Bleomycin is injected directly into the wart, targeting the infected cells and effectively eliminating the wart.

Benefits:

• Powerful treatment for persistent warts
• Minimally invasive with quick results
• Suitable for difficult cases

7. Yeast Injections

For resistant plantar warts, CANDIN Candida antigen (yeast) injections can be used to stimulate the body’s immune system to attack the wart. This therapy is typically recommended when other treatments have been unsuccessful. 

Benefits:

• Activates the immune system to target the wart
• Minimally invasive with minimal discomfort
• Effective for treatment-resistant warts

Why Choose Fallbrook Podiatry for Plantar Warts Treatment?

Dr. Patish uses well-researched and proven treatments to remove plantar warts effectively and with minimal discomfort. We offer personalized care and comprehensive solutions tailored to your specific condition, especially for patients with diabetes or circulatory issues, where infection risks are higher.

Preventing Plantar Warts

Reduce your risk of developing plantar warts with the following tips:

1. Wear Shoes in Public Areas: Protect your feet in communal spaces like locker rooms and showers.
2. Keep Feet Clean and Dry: Wash your feet daily and dry them thoroughly.
3. Avoid Direct Contact with Warts: Do not touch or pick at warts to prevent spreading the virus.
4. Use Antifungal Powders or Sprays: These help reduce moisture and lower the risk of infection.

Schedule Your Plantar Warts Consultation Today

Don’t let plantar warts disrupt your daily activities. Whether you need chemical therapy, laser treatment, or minor surgical removal, Dr. Patish and his team at Fallbrook Podiatry are here to help. Call us at 760-728-4800 or book your appointment online today.