Foot Warts Causes and Prevention | Foot & Ankle Centers

Foot health is something we often overlook—until something uncomfortable shows up. One common issue? Plantar warts. These small, sometimes painful growths can seem like they come out of nowhere. But understanding what causes plantar warts and how to prevent them can help you protect your feet before problems begin.

Whether you’re walking barefoot at the gym or just trying to figure out why your heel hurts, this guide will walk you through what plantar warts are, how they form, and how to treat them effectively.

What Are Plantar Warts?

Plantar warts are noncancerous skin growths caused by certain strains of HPV that enter through tiny, often unnoticed cuts on the soles of your feet, appearing as rough, thickened skin that can be tender and may contain small black dots, which are clotted blood vessels.

At Foot & Ankle Centers in Frisco, Little Elm, and McKinney, Dr. Tavakoli, Dr. Knapp, and Dr. Treleven can help diagnose plantar warts and provide tailored treatment options to restore your foot health and comfort.

How Do You Get Warts on Your Feet?

HPV thrives in warm, moist environments. That means communal spaces like public pools, locker rooms, and gym showers are common hotspots for exposure.

The virus can spread through:

• Walking barefoot in public areas

• Sharing socks, shoes, or towels

• Direct contact with a wart—on yourself or someone else

You don’t need to have visible cuts to get infected; even microscopic breaks in the skin can let the virus in.

Symptoms to Watch For

Not sure if it’s a plantar wart? Look for these signs:

• A small, grainy bump on the bottom of your foot

• Hard, thickened skin over a specific spot

• Discomfort or pain when walking or standing

• Tiny black dots (clotted blood vessels) inside the lesion

If you're experiencing any of these, it's a good idea to keep an eye on it—and to take precautions to avoid spreading it.

How to Prevent Plantar Warts

Preventing plantar warts isn’t complicated, but it does require consistency.

Here are a few simple tips from Foot & Ankle Centers:

1. Wear Foot Protection in Public Areas: Use flip-flops or water shoes in communal showers, pools, and gyms.

2. Keep Feet Clean and Dry: Wash your feet daily and dry them thoroughly—especially between the toes.

3. Don’t Share Personal Items: Towels, shoes, and socks can all carry the virus. Keep yours to yourself.

4. Avoid Touching Warts: If you already have a wart, avoid scratching or picking at it to prevent spreading.

5. Support Your Immune System: A strong immune system can help your body fight off viruses more effectively.

Treatment Options That Work

If a plantar wart shows up, don’t panic. In many cases, they’ll resolve on their own—but that can take months or even years.

For faster relief, consider one of the following treatments offered at all three Foot & Ankle Centers locations in Frisco, McKinney, and Little Elm:

• Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter salicylic acid can gradually break down wart tissue.

• Cryotherapy: This freezing treatment, performed in-office, uses liquid nitrogen to kill the wart.

• Laser Therapy or Minor Surgery: For stubborn or painful warts, more advanced treatment options may be needed.

At Foot & Ankle Centers our podiatrists Dr. Tavakoli, Dr. Knapp, and Dr. Treleven offer personalized treatment plans that address your specific needs and help you get back on your feet—comfortably.

When to See a Specialist

While some plantar warts go away on their own, it’s time to book an appointment if:

• The wart is painful, bleeding, or growing

• Home treatments haven’t worked

• You have diabetes or a compromised immune system

• There are signs of infection like redness, swelling, or pus

Ignoring a plantar wart can lead to more discomfort or even spreading, so it’s best to get it checked early.

Don’t Let Warts Slow You Down

Plantar warts are common, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through them. With proper prevention and the right care, you can keep your feet healthy and wart-free.

If you think you might have a plantar wart—or just want peace of mind—schedule a consult with our expert podiatry team at Foot & Ankle Centers. We offer locations in Frisco, Little Elm, or McKinney for your convenience. Whether you see Dr. Tavakoli, Dr. Knapp, or Dr. Treleven, you’ll receive personalized care aimed at lasting relief and better foot health.