As experts in footcare, we know that plantar warts are nothing but a nuisance. First of all, they are unsightly. It can be embarrassing to walk around in sandals because you have nasty bumps on your feet. And secondly, even though they are generally harmless, plantar warts can cause great pain during activity.
These stubborn warts usually take time before they go away. Good news is there are several treatment options available, and in this article, we will discuss the association between salicylic acid and plantar warts.
What is a Plantar Wart
A plantar wart, sometimes called a verruca, is a benign skin growth on the bottom of the foot. It is caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) — a common viral infection of the skin. Anyone can get these warts, but they most often affect children, teenagers, and those with weakened immune system.
Symptoms of a Plantar Wart
Signs and symptoms of a plantar wart include:
- A small rough growth on the sole, usually the ball of your foot or the heel
- Hard thickened skin over a well-defined spot
- Characteristic black dots which are actually clotted blood vessels
- Pain or tenderness when walking or standing
Salicylic Acid as an Effective Treatment for Plantar Warts
As previously mentioned, plantar warts naturally disappear on their own, but that would take some time, with two years at most. If you wish to get rid of those painful, annoying warts on your feet, a good starting point is the use of over-the-counter salicylic acid.
Salicylic acid is a first-line therapy used to treat warts. It works by exfoliating the skin until the wart is peeled off. Additionally, it may encourage the immune system to respond to the virus and build healthy skin cells in the area. This is a very good way of getting rid of warts, however, it should never be used to treat warts on the face, neck, and genitals.
If you want to get started on your salicylic acid plantar wart removal, do take note that products recommended for self-treatment of common or plantar warts include adhesive pads that contain 12% to 40% salicylic acid, and solutions that contain 5% to 17% salicylic acid.
If you are seeing a doctor, they may prescribe a stronger and more effective medication.
How to Use Salicylic Acid for Plantar Warts
Prior to application of salicylic acid for plantar warts, make sure to read and follow the instructions that come with it, or follow your doctor’s instructions.
Listed below are the specific salicylic acid plantar wart removal steps that you should follow:
- Soak the wart in warm water for 5–10 minutes to help loosen and soften skin.
- Use a pumice stone, callus file, or emery board to carefully remove the top dead layers of skin. This helps the medicine penetrate the skin more easily.
- Apply the solution or pad to the wart. Be careful to apply it only to the affected area and not the surrounding skin. If you are using a medicated pad, you may cut it to size if necessary.
- Cover the area with a bandage or sock, and wash off the medicine in the morning.
- Repeat the application as instructed. If the wart falls off, swelling or drainage develops at the site, or the area becomes too irritated or painful, stop using the medicine.
When to Seek Medical Care
Plantar warts come in different shapes and form. If you have warts that interfere with daily life and are not responsive to self-care, it is best that you consult with a physician.
If you have symptoms such as painful or bleeding warts, rapidly multiplying warts, or medical conditions like diabetes and poor sensation in the feet, you should have your warts treated by Dr. Ejodamen Shobowale from DeNiel Foot & Ankle Center. Our Foot Doctor Houston will assess your condition and provide you with high quality foot and ankle treatment.
Dr. Ejodamen Shobowale, a foot specialist Houston TX, provides sports podiatry, diabetic foot care, and treatment and surgery for all foot and ankle problems to residents of Houston and the surrounding areas. Please contact us right away to schedule an appointment.
