Foot Warts in Children

Plantar, or foot warts, are common in children. These warts are lumps that have hardened skin, are typically gray or brown in color, and have irregular surfaces. They are usually located on the heel or sole of the foot – areas that bear most body weight. Plantar warts are not always serious, but they can affect life quality. Foot warts in kids are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and are aesthetically displeasing. Not all children with HPV will get plantar warts. They can occur from walking barefoot on floors containing the virus. Warm, wet areas, like public swimming pools, bathrooms, and changing rooms, are ideal breeding grounds for the virus. Oftentimes, there is a small wound on the foot, which provides an entrance for the foot wart. Plantar warts develop very slowly and may take up to a year to become visible. Symptoms vary depending on the location of the wart. They may hurt when walking and can get infected. If your child has a plantar wart, visit a podiatrist who can offer options for treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.