Verruca : Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Verrucas / Verrucae, also known as plantar warts, are common skin lesions that develop on the feet. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can enter the skin through small cuts, cracks or areas of damaged skin.

Although verrucae are usually harmless, they can sometimes become painful, particularly when they develop on weight-bearing areas of the foot. At Advanced Chiropody & Podiatry, our podiatrists can assess verrucae and discuss suitable treatment options based on the individual patient.

What Does a Verruca Look Like?

A verruca can appear as a small, rough area of thickened skin on the sole of the foot, toes or other areas that experience pressure.

They may have:

• A rough or grainy surface

• Small dark or black dots within the lesion

• A thickened area of hard skin over the verruca

• Disruption of the normal skin lines

• Pain or tenderness when standing or walking

Verrucae can sometimes be mistaken for corns or areas of hard skin. This is why professional assessment can be helpful when you are unsure what you are dealing with.

Are Verrucas Painful?

Not every verruca causes pain. However, verrucae located underneath the heel, ball of the foot or another weight-bearing area can become uncomfortable.

Some people describe the sensation as feeling like they are walking on a small stone. Pain may become more noticeable when walking, exercising or standing for prolonged periods.

How Do You Catch a Verruca?

Verrucae are caused by HPV and can spread through direct or indirect contact.

The virus can enter the skin through tiny breaks in the skin. Public areas such as swimming pools, changing rooms and communal showers can provide opportunities for transmission.

To reduce the risk of spreading verrucae:

• Avoid picking or scratching the verruca

• Keep the area covered where appropriate

• Avoid sharing towels, socks or footwear

• Wear appropriate footwear in communal changing areas and swimming pools

• Wash your hands after touching the affected area

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Do Verrucas Go Away on Their Own?

Many verrucae eventually disappear without treatment as the body's immune system responds to the virus. However, this can take considerable time, and some verrucae can persist or become uncomfortable.

Treatment may be considered if the verruca is painful, persistent, spreading or affecting your everyday activities.

Verruca Treatment

There are several treatment approaches for verrucae. The most appropriate option depends on factors such as the location, size and duration of the verruca, as well as the patient's age and general health.

A podiatrist can assess the lesion and advise whether treatment is appropriate.

Depending on the individual circumstances, treatment may involve methods designed to gradually remove the verrucous tissue and encourage the body's immune response.

It is important not to try to cut, burn or remove a verruca yourself, as this can cause injury, bleeding or infection.

Verruca or Corn?

Verrucae and corns can look similar, particularly when there is a significant amount of hard skin over the area.

A podiatrist can examine the lesion and look for features that help distinguish a verruca from a corn or callus. If you have a painful area of hard skin on your foot and are unsure what it is, professional assessment can help determine the most appropriate treatment.

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

Consider arranging an assessment if:

• You are unsure whether you have a verruca

• The lesion is painful

• The verruca has been present for a long time

• You have multiple verrucae

• The lesion appears to be spreading

• Previous treatment has not worked

• The problem is affecting walking or everyday activities

People with certain medical conditions should seek professional advice before attempting to treat foot lesions themselves.

Professional Verruca Assessment and Treatment in Hexham

At Advanced Chiropody & Podiatry, our HCPC registered podiatrists provide professional assessment and treatment for a range of common foot problems, including verrucae, corns, callus, hard skin and nail problems.

Our new Hexham clinic is located at:

26 Battle Hill, Hexham , NE46 2EB

We also carry out home visits within Newcastle, Gateshead, South Tyneside and surrounding areas.

We are accepting new patients.

If you are unsure whether a lesion on your foot is a verruca, corn or hard skin, our podiatrists can assess it and discuss the appropriate treatment options with you.

Call or text: 07899 615458 Email: advancedchiropody@gmail.com