Verruca (Plantar Warts) – Causes, Symptoms, and How I Can Help

Verrucas, also known as plantar warts, are common viral infections that appear on the feet. Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), they can be uncomfortable, unsightly, and persistent if left unchecked.

At Cristina Varon Podiatry, I help patients identify and manage verrucas, providing professional guidance to restore comfort and foot health.

What is a Verruca?

A verruca is a small, rough growth that usually appears on the sole of the foot. Unlike corns or calluses, which are caused by friction, verrucas are caused by a viral infection. HPV enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions and causes the outer layer of the skin to grow rapidly, forming a wart.

Verrucas can appear anywhere on the sole but are most common on weight-bearing areas like the heel or ball of the foot. They are contagious and can spread through direct contact or by walking barefoot in public areas such as swimming pools, gyms, or locker rooms.

Causes and Risk Factors

Understanding what causes verrucas helps in preventing them. Common risk factors include:

1. HPV Infection: Verrucas develop when the human papillomavirus enters the skin.

2. Weakened Immune System: People with lower immunity are more susceptible.

3. Warm, Moist Environments: Public showers, pools, and locker rooms create ideal conditions for the virus.

4. Cuts or Abrasions: Even small breaks in the skin allow the virus to enter.

5. Children and Young Adults: Verrucas are more common in younger people because their immune systems may not recognize the virus immediately.

   
   

By being aware of these factors, you can take steps to reduce the risk of developing plantar warts.

Symptoms to Look For

Verrucas are often painless at first but can become uncomfortable over time. Some common signs I see include:

• Small, rough, or grainy bumps on the sole of the foot

• Tiny black dots in the center

• Thickened skin surrounding the growth

• Pain or discomfort when walking or standing

• Clusters of warts in some cases

  
  

Because verrucas can look similar to corns or calluses, it’s important to get a professional evaluation for an accurate diagnosis.

Prevention Tips

Preventing verrucas is just as important as identifying them early. I recommend the following strategies:

• Keep feet clean and dry, especially between the toes

• Wear flip-flops or shower shoes in public pools and locker rooms

• Avoid sharing towels, socks, or footwear

• Cover any visible verrucas with a waterproof plaster to prevent spreading

• Inspect your feet regularly for early signs of verrucas

  
  

Following these steps can significantly reduce the risk of developing plantar warts or spreading them to others.

Myths vs Truths

Myth 1: Plantar warts have “roots”

Plantar warts do not have roots. The dark dots often seen are thrombosed capillaries, not roots. The wart grows within the skin layers, not downward like a root system.

Myth 2: You only get plantar warts if you have poor hygiene

Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Anyone can get them, regardless of hygiene. Small breaks in the skin increase susceptibility.

Myth 3: Plantar warts are always painful

Some plantar warts are painless. Pain usually occurs when:

• The wart is under a pressure point

• There is significant callus formation

• The lesion is squeezed from side to side

Myth 4: Cutting or filing a wart makes it spread

When performed correctly and hygienically by a professional, debridement does not cause spread and often reduces pain and improves treatment outcomes.However, home cutting without proper hygiene can increase the risk of spread.

Myth 5: Once treated, plantar warts never come back

Recurrence is common. HPV can persist in surrounding skin, and immunity varies between individuals.

Truth 1: Plantar warts are caused by a virus

They are caused by HPV, typically types 1, 2, or 4, and are contagious through direct

contact or contaminated surfaces.

Truth 2: They can resolve on their own

Many plantar warts resolve spontaneously as the immune system clears the virus. This can take months or even years, especially in adults.

Truth 3: Children clear warts faster than adults

Children tend to develop immunity more quickly. Adults often experience longer-lasting and more resistant warts.

Truth 4: Treatment does not “kill” the virus instantly

Most treatments work by:

• Stimulating an immune response

• Removing infected tissue

• Reducing pain and pressure

There is no guaranteed instant cure.

Truth 5: Walking barefoot increases risk

Communal wet areas (swimming pools, gyms, changing rooms) increase exposure risk, especially when skin is macerated or damaged.

Truth 6: Not all painful plantar lesions are warts

Corns, callus, and foreign body reactions can mimic plantar warts. Accurate diagnosis is essential before treatment.

When to See a Podiatrist

Even though verrucas are usually harmless, they can cause pain, discomfort, or embarrassment. If a wart grows quickly, becomes painful, spreads, or persists for weeks, it’s important to get a professional assessment.

At Cristina Varon Podiatry, I provide a thorough evaluation to determine the exact nature of the growth and discuss the best way to address it. Early intervention can make a big difference in comfort and foot health.

Book an Appointment

If you notice a verruca that is painful, spreading, or not improving on its own, book an appointment with me at Cristina Varon Podiatry. I can examine your foot, provide an accurate diagnosis, and discuss personalized options to resolve the issue safely and effectively. Taking action early ensures faster relief and healthier, more comfortable feet.