Plantar warts or verrucae are easy to pick up, and most often don’t cause any real harm. However, they can be painful and unsightly, so if you want them removed, you should visit experienced podiatrist Ernest L. Isaacson, DPM PC, for a proper diagnosis and the most advanced treatments. Dr. Isaacson and his team provide services in the Murray Hill neighborhood of Manhattan in New York City and specialize in treating conditions like plantar warts using Swift microwave energy. Call today to schedule a consultation or book an appointment online.
Plantar Warts Q & A
What are plantar warts?
Warts develop after infection with a virus. Plantar warts or verrucae develop after infection with particular strains of the human papillomavirus. They develop on the soles of your feet and aren’t as prominent as most other warts.
Infection with the virus that causes plantar warts often happens at places like swimming pools or public locker rooms. Viruses thrive in warm, wet conditions, so places where there’s lots of heat and water, like the changing rooms at the swimming pool, are ideal environments for the virus to grow.
Plantar warts don’t normally cause much discomfort unless they’re on the ball of your foot or your heel, where the warts come under more pressure. Be aware of any changes in your plantar warts, for example, if one starts hurting, bleeding, or changes color.
You should also get help for plantar warts if you have diabetes, poor circulation, or lack of feeling in your body, as they could develop into a more serious condition like an ulcer.
How are plantar warts treated?
You can buy over-the-counter wart treatments, but there’s a risk your warts might recur or become resistant to these remedies.
It’s far better to visit Ernest L. Isaacson, DPM PC, for removal of your plantar warts with:
- Prescription-strength medication
- Minor surgery
- Laser cautery
A technology called Swift is also available to remove plantar warts.
How does Swift work on plantar warts?
Swift is an advanced therapy that uses microwave energy to treat plantar warts. It uses a specialized probe that targets the affected tissues with precision. In many cases, you only need two or three treatment sessions with Swift to resolve your plantar warts. Sessions take place about once a month.
The Swift treatment feels much the same as the discomfort of getting a small scratch or injection. The feeling only lasts a few seconds. You might have some soreness after Swift treatment, but it won’t be anything notable, and you can get on with your life as normal.
Prevention of warts is the best way to deal with them, so don’t go barefoot in public places like locker rooms. Wear plastic or rubber shower shoes, slides, flip-flops, or something similar to reduce the risk of infection. Look after your feet, too, keeping them and your footwear as dry and clean as possible.
Call Ernest L. Isaacson, DPM PC, today if you have plantar warts that need treating, or book an appointment using the online form.
