When discussing feet and foot health, Verruca Pedis, commonly known as Plantar Warts, are a very common foot problem among children and many adults. This specific form of warts are caused by a strain of the Human Papilloma Virus, which causes a non-cancerous skin growth in the top layers of the skin (epidermis). Plantar warts are contagious and can be spread from person to person. A wart can be contracted from not wearing shoes in gym change rooms, showers, and pool decks, pedicure tubs, and even from family members at home. Often warts will resolve themselves within two years, however, they can be very painful and cause  irritation depending on location. They can also look rather unsightly. Commonly, plantar warts will have black dots seen within the wart, covered with a callous. The heavy overlaying callous can cause a wart to be mistaken for a corn. The black dots are unique to warts and are actually the blood vessels that have grown up into the skin. This means that warts can bleed slightly upon treatment.

There are many different treatment options available for people suffering from warts. It’s important to consult your Chiropodist to discuss the best treatment for you as it is an issue they can help you resolve. Remember healthy feet are happy feet!

Brittney Wirtz is a Chiropodist  offering specialized foot care, servicing Oakville,  and the surrounding regions (Burlington, Milton, Mississauga).