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Verrucae Treatment and Advice
Ultimate Guide
Verrucae, commonly known as plantar warts, are small, rough growths that appear on the soles of the feet. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can vary in size and number. Verrucae can be painful, particularly when located on the foot...
What are verrucae?
Verrucae, commonly known as plantar warts, are small, rough growths that appear on the soles of the feet. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can vary in size and number. Verrucae can be painful, particularly when located on weight-bearing areas of the foot, and may cause discomfort when walking or standing. Foot Specialists are trained to diagnose and treat verrucae, offering a range of treatment options to remove the warts and prevent their recurrence.
Verrucae Treatment options
Treatment for verrucae by a podiatrist can involve various methods depending on the severity, location, and patient preference. Common treatment options include:
Cryotherapy:
This is one of the most widely used treatments, where the verruca is frozen using liquid nitrogen. The freezing process destroys the infected tissue, and over time, the verruca will fall off as healthy skin grows back. Cryotherapy may require multiple sessions to achieve complete removal and can cause some discomfort during and after treatment.
Salicylic Acid Applications:
Salicylic acid is a common treatment that involves applying a medicated solution or plaster directly to the verruca. The acid helps to gradually peel away the infected skin. Podiatrists may recommend or apply stronger concentrations than those available over the counter, ensuring a more effective treatment.
Electrosurgery:
In cases where other treatments have failed, electrosurgery might be used. This involves the use of a fine needle or electric current to burn off the verruca. It is typically done under local anaesthetic and is effective for stubborn verrucae but may leave a small scar.
Needling:
Verruca needling is a minor surgical procedure where a podiatrist punctures the verruca multiple times with a fine needle under local anaesthetic. This encourages the body’s immune system to recognise and fight the virus. Needling is often considered for resistant or multiple verrucae.
Laser Treatment:
In some cases, podiatrists may use laser therapy to target and destroy the blood vessels feeding the verruca, which leads to its eventual death. Laser treatment is usually considered when other methods have been unsuccessful.
Verrucae Advice
In addition to treatment, a podiatrist will offer advice on managing verrucae and preventing their spread or recurrence. Key advice may include:
Foot Hygiene:
Keeping the feet clean and dry can help prevent the spread of the virus. It’s important to avoid sharing towels, shoes, or socks with others to reduce the risk of transmitting the infection.
Avoiding Direct Contact:
Verrucae are contagious, so avoiding walking barefoot in communal areas like swimming pools, gym showers, and changing rooms is crucial. Wearing flip-flops or waterproof footwear in these environments can help prevent the virus from spreading.
Covering the Verruca:
Podiatrists may recommend covering the verruca with a plaster or verruca sock, particularly if the patient is engaging in activities where the foot will come into contact with communal surfaces. This not only protects others but also reduces the risk of further irritation to the affected area.
Monitoring and Seeking Professional Advice:
If a verruca does not respond to over-the-counter treatments or causes significant discomfort, it’s important to seek professional advice from a podiatrist. They can assess the condition and provide the most appropriate treatment, which is especially important for individuals with underlying health conditions like diabetes.
Early treatment and proper management of verrucae by a podiatrist can prevent the condition from worsening or spreading, allowing patients to maintain comfort and mobility.