What is a verruca?

A verruca(e) is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). The viral infection affects the epithelial cells in the skin of the foot, making them over-grow and thicken, causing small rough lumps which can feel uncomfortable under your foot.

Verrucae are also known as plantar warts as they develop on the plantar (the bottom) surface of the foot but can appear on the toes too.

The virus can be spread through contact between bare feet and HPV-contaminated surfaces which are often found in warm and moist areas such as swimming pool floors, changing rooms and shower cubicles. Verrucas are very common are more likely to appear when you’re a teenager or young adult however, they can occur at any age, particularly if you have a weak immune system or on immunosuppressant medication. They can also appear after a trauma or break in the skin which allows the virus to replicate.

Verrucas can be singular 'satelite' or several clumped together 'mosaic' and can go away on their own in time, especially with children. In adults, it can take several years for a verruca to go away.

What does a verruca look like?

A verruca has a white flat or cauliflower appearance and usually have several small 'dots' in the centre, which are from tiny 'clotted' blood vessels.

Verrucas are usually appear on high pressure areas of the foot which can cause sharp pain when you put weight on the affected area of your foot.

When should I see a Podiatrist?

When over the counter fail to work
If you have Diabetes or poor circulation.
If you are immune suppressed.

It is very important not to self treat a verruca if you have any health conditions or poor tissue viability.

Verruca treatments

95% silver nitrate

Verrutop

Verrucae Needling

Swift Microwave Therapy

Silver nitrate is an older method of treatment for verrucae but can still be effective. It works by chemically burning the verrucae and forms a black scab which is debrided by your Podiatrist either weekly or fortnightly.

Is a professional use topical treatment which works by mummification of the tissues. applied fortnightly by your Podiatrist.

This treatment is not available at our clinic

This ground breaking treatment uses Microwaves to target only the affected tissue and spark an immune response to effectively treat verrucae. Find out more here

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