Come summer and swimsuit season, many people tend to become wary of dressing rooms.  What many people tend to misunderstand, however, is that bacteria do not live in the dressing room, but in the articles of clothing that people try on in them. This also includes shoes of all varieties, whether it be boots or sneakers. Bacteria from other people’s skin cells can grow inside shoes, so when trying on new footwear be sure to wear thick socks. This will minimize the risk for contracting foot conditions such as athlete’s foot and plantar warts.

Plantar warts are a condition that can last a long time. If you have any concerns contact podiatrist Louis R. MacDonald, DPM of New York. Our doctor will treat 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

• Legions 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, will 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 concerns please feel free to contact our office located in Moriches, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about plantar warts.