Plantar warts are viral infections caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). This virus enters through small cracks or lesions in the skin of the foot. Once it enters, it is inoculated, forming an internal capsule with a thick wall which, in contact areas, remains within the skin, increasing in size and causing pain and discomfort.

How to identify a plantar wart?

• Abnormal thickening of the skin, yellow or dark in colour
• Sensation of a rounded pocket inside, with pain when pressed
• They may appear individually or in clusters (known as mosaic warts)
• They are contagious and may appear in other areas
• A grey or brownish appearance
• Pain or tenderness when bearing weight

When should I consult a Podiatrist?

Whenever you identify any of the symptoms referred to above, you should consult your Podiatrist. Self-care or self-medication often causes the lesion to spread and contaminates other areas of the foot or the hands.