Warts are a common skin condition that can be both painful and persistent, especially when they develop on weight-bearing areas like the soles of the feet. These are known as plantar warts, and they can cause significant discomfort when walking or standing. While some warts may go away on their own, others can linger for months or even years without proper treatment.
A common question people ask is: Can podiatrists remove warts permanently? The answer is yes—podiatrists offer effective treatments that can eliminate warts. However, preventing recurrence requires good aftercare and proactive foot hygiene.
In this article, we will explore how podiatrists treat warts, how to prevent them from coming back, and the best ways to care for your feet after wart removal.
What Are Plantar Warts?
Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which enters the skin through small cuts or abrasions. These warts develop on the bottom of the feet and can grow inward due to pressure from walking. Unlike other types of warts, plantar warts often have a hard, calloused surface with tiny black dots, which are clotted blood vessels.
Symptoms of plantar warts include:
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Pain or tenderness when walking or standing
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A rough, grainy growth on the sole of the foot
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Small black dots within the wart
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A thickened area of skin resembling a corn or callus
If left untreated, plantar warts can multiply and become more difficult to remove. Seeking treatment from a local podiatry clinic in Canberra ACT can help address the problem early and prevent further complications.
Can Podiatrists Permanently Remove Warts?
Yes, podiatrists have the expertise and tools to permanently remove warts through various treatment methods. However, the success of treatment depends on factors such as:
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The size and depth of the wart
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The patient’s immune system
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How long the wart has been present
Here are some of the most effective methods podiatrists use for plantar wart removal in Canberra:
1. Cryotherapy (Freezing Treatment)
Cryotherapy involves applying liquid nitrogen to freeze the wart. The extreme cold destroys the wart tissue, allowing new, healthy skin to grow. This method is effective but may require multiple treatments.
2. Salicylic Acid Treatment
Salicylic acid is a topical treatment that gradually breaks down the wart over several weeks. While this method can be effective, it requires consistent application and may take longer to see results.
3. Laser Therapy
Laser treatment is used for stubborn warts that do not respond to other treatments. The laser burns and destroys the wart tissue, allowing new skin to replace it.
4. Swift Microwave Therapy
Swift therapy is a newer method that uses microwave energy to stimulate the body’s immune response and attack the wart from within. This treatment is quick, non-invasive, and has a high success rate.
5. Minor Surgical Removal
For severe or persistent warts, a podiatrist may perform minor surgery to remove the wart using a scalpel or curette. This is typically done under local anaesthesia.
The best treatment option depends on the individual case. A professional podiatrist will assess the wart and recommend the most effective approach.
Preventing Wart Recurrence
Even after a wart has been successfully removed, HPV can still linger on the skin or in the environment. To reduce the risk of warts coming back, follow these prevention tips:
1. Practise Good Foot Hygiene
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Wash your feet daily with soap and water.
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Keep your feet dry to prevent moisture buildup.
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Change socks regularly, especially if your feet sweat a lot.
2. Wear Protective Footwear
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Avoid walking barefoot in public showers, pools, and gyms.
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Wear thongs or shower shoes in communal areas to reduce the risk of HPV exposure.
3. Avoid Touching Warts
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Do not pick, scratch, or touch warts, as this can spread the virus to other areas.
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If you have a wart, cover it with a bandage to prevent transmission.
4. Keep Your Immune System Strong
A healthy immune system can help fight off HPV and prevent new warts from forming. Support your immune health by:
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Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients
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Getting enough sleep and exercise
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Managing stress levels
5. Avoid Sharing Personal Items
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Do not share socks, shoes, towels, or nail clippers with others.
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If someone in your household has warts, disinfect surfaces and avoid direct skin contact.
Following these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of wart recurrence and keep your feet healthy.
Aftercare Following Wart Removal
Proper aftercare is crucial to ensure a smooth recovery and prevent complications after wart removal. Here’s what you should do after treatment:
1. Keep the Treated Area Clean
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Wash the area gently with mild soap and water.
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Avoid harsh scrubbing or using exfoliating tools.
2. Protect the Skin
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If the podiatrist applied a dressing, keep it in place as instructed.
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Avoid tight shoes that may rub against the treated area.
3. Monitor for Signs of Infection
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Mild redness and tenderness are normal, but excessive pain, swelling, or pus could indicate infection.
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Contact your podiatrist if you notice any unusual symptoms.
4. Avoid High-Impact Activities
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Limit running, jumping, or intense exercise for a few days to prevent irritation.
5. Follow Up with Your Podiatrist
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If multiple treatments are needed, schedule follow-up appointments as recommended.
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If new warts appear, seek treatment early to prevent further spread.
By following these aftercare guidelines, you can ensure a successful recovery and lower the chances of the wart returning.
Common Myths About Wart Removal
There are many misconceptions about warts and their treatment. Here are some common myths debunked:
Myth 1: Warts Will Go Away on Their Own
While some warts disappear naturally, others persist for years without treatment. Seeking professional removal can speed up the healing process and prevent further spread.
Myth 2: Cutting Off a Wart at Home Will Cure It
Cutting or picking at a wart will not eliminate the virus and can lead to infection or additional warts. Always seek treatment from a qualified podiatrist.
Myth 3: Only Children Get Warts
While children are more susceptible to warts due to frequent exposure to communal areas, adults can also develop warts, especially if they have a weakened immune system.
Myth 4: Warts Are a Sign of Poor Hygiene
Warts are caused by HPV, not poor hygiene. Even people who take excellent care of their feet can contract the virus in public spaces.
Understanding these facts can help people make informed decisions about treatment and prevention.
Podiatrists can effectively remove warts permanently using a variety of treatment methods, from cryotherapy and laser therapy to surgical excision. However, preventing recurrence requires good foot hygiene, proper aftercare, and proactive prevention strategies.
If you are struggling with plantar warts, visiting a local podiatry clinic in Canberra ACT can help you find the right treatment option. Clinics specialising in plantar wart removal in Canberra offer professional solutions to ensure effective and long-lasting wart elimination.
By taking the right steps to prevent HPV exposure and following professional aftercare advice, you can keep your feet wart-free and healthy for the long term.
