Plantar Warts 101: What Are Your Best Alternatives

Are you experiencing anguish or discomfort from that growth on your foot? In all likelihood, you have plantar warts (plantar meaning foot).

Of course, foot (plantar) warts, unlike other kinds of growths, are caused by a virus called the human papillomavirus.

If you've ever had a wart anywhere else on your body, HPV was the cause of it, as well.

The HPV virus is of course microscopic, which means the smallest of cracks in the skins surface is enough for it to enter the body. Once infected, the virus can cause warts to develop on top of the foot, on the toes, or on the soles of the feet. Foot warts possess a lot of of the same physical attributes as other wart types. They have the usual "cauliflower" look. They're similarly shaped as other warts, as well. They vary in color, but are generally the same color as the rest of the skin or somewhat darker. Sometimes only one warts develops, but they also can grow in clusters.

The one exception when it comes to appearance is when a wart is located on the sole of the foot. Meaning, the body's weight bearing down on the wart causes it to become flattened over time. Another unique characteristic of these warts is their clearly defined borders.

As it turns out, this boundary is a helpful way to tell it apart from other kinds of skin growths, such as a blister. Also, think back to how quickly the growth developed. The other growths take more time to form. But on the other hand, warts form rather rapidly.

If you’re not sure about what kind of growth you have, then it’s a good idea to consult your doctor, especially if you’re thinking about any kind of do-it-yourself treatment.

Okay, now let's talk about the ways you can remove plantar warts. Just so you know, not only is it imperative to treat your current warts, but it's also imperative to do what you can to prevent new ones from forming.

It's possible to spread warts if the infected area comes in contact with other areas of the skin, so be sure not to touch them.

It’s also best to wear shoes or sandals in public areas, especially in areas where the virus is known to flourish. In particular, avoid walking barefoot in the areas where others commonly walk barefoot, such as locker or shower room floors as well as swimming pools. What's more, the more you wash and dry your feet, the more difficult it will be for the virus to proliferate.

Plantar wart removal methods aren't much different than those used for other kinds of warts. Most people medicate them using over the counter removers or natural remedies.