Plantar Warts Explained: Understanding Those Painful Foot Bumps

Noticed a rough, fleshy bump on the bottom of your foot that’s painful when you walk? You might be dealing with a plantar wart. These common growths are caused by a virus and can be surprisingly stubborn. Below, the Foot & Ankle Center of Ohio explains what plantar warts are, how you might get them, and why seeing a podiatrist is your best step toward accurate diagnosis and effective care.

What Are Plantar Warts?

Plantar warts grow on the soles (plantar surface) of your feet and are caused by specific strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

• Unlike warts elsewhere, the pressure from walking and standing often causes them to grow inward beneath a thick layer of skin, which is frequently why they become painful.

The worst part? Once you have plantar warts, they tend to stick around until the proper treatment is applied.

Where Do They Come From? (How Warts Spread)

HPV thrives in warm, moist environments. You can pick up the virus through direct contact, often by walking barefoot in communal areas. Watch for:

• Pool Decks
• Locker Rooms
• Public Showers
• Gym Mats

The virus enters through tiny cuts or breaks in the skin on the bottom of your feet. Plantar warts are contagious and can spread to other parts of your feet or to other people.

How to Spot a Plantar Wart: Key Signs

How can you tell if that bump is a plantar wart? Look for these characteristics:

• Appearance: A small, grainy, or fleshy growth on the sole. It might interrupt the normal lines and ridges of your skin.
• Tiny Black Dots: Often called “wart seeds,” these are actually tiny clotted blood vessels – a common distinguishing feature from calluses.
• Pain/Tenderness: Usually painful when walking or standing, often described as feeling like you’re stepping on a pebble. Squeezing the sides may also be painful.
• Location: Most common on weight-bearing areas like heels or balls of the feet. Can appear singly or in clusters (mosaic warts).

“Waiting It Out” & DIY Don’t Cut It

Plantar warts can be difficult to treat:

• They can spread when ignored.
• They can become more painful. Growing inward intensifies pain.
• They’re easily mistaken for calluses. Only a podiatrist can accurately diagnose!
• Over-the-counter treatments often fail to fully eradicate the deep viral tissue, leading to recurrence.

Don’t rely on guesswork! If you suspect you have a plantar wart, an accurate diagnosis from a podiatrist is the first step toward effective relief.

For trusted podiatric experts, choose Foot & Ankle Center of Ohio! With advanced techniques, proven skills, and a stress-free environment, our team can resolve your foot and ankle problems and help you return to living your best life. Step past pain and schedule your appointment today.