Verrucas sometimes come and go on their own. Occasionally they last for a long time and a few get quite painful, especially if they are on pressure areas of the foot. What are they? Verrucas are warts that usually appear on the bottom of the foot or in between the toes. They can appear singularly, in multiples or in clusters. They appear superficially on the skin and are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).
There are several methods of treating verrucas. At The Foot Health Centre our main methods are by the use of caustic chemicals, freezing treatment (cryotherapy), laser therapy, or by dry needling which is done using local anaesthetic. Often we find a combination of treatments is most effective. If you have a verruca that concerns you, come and see one of our podiatrists to discuss a suitable treatment. We treat both children and adults.
How to stop Verrucas Spreading
Verrucas are highly contageous and are often picked up by walking in wet public places such as swimming baths.
- If you have a verruca cover it with waterproof plaster when using swimming baths
- Wear flip-flops when using wet public areas such as showers or changing rooms
- Don’t share towels, shoes or socks
- Change socks daily
- Wash hands after touching a verruca
- Avoid picking at a verruca
- Consider spraying the insides of shoes with a sanitising spray. Consider buying new shoes and keep the insides sanitised.