Plantar warts, or warts on the bottom of the foot, are a common symptom of HPV. These little growths are unsightly and can cause significant foot pain. While there is no guaranteed way to prevent warts from forming, there are some strategies you can use to reduce your risk of getting them.

Guide to Avoiding & Managing Plantar Warts

1. Don’t Aggravate Warts

Aggravating your warts can cause them to spread, worsening foot pain and making them more challenging to get rid of. Do not pick at, shave, or scratch them. Keep your existing warts dry, so they are less likely to spread.

2. Take Care in Public Places

Human papillomavirus thrives in warm and moist conditions. This means warts can spread quickly between feet in public areas such as locker rooms, showers, or pools. Always wear footwear such as sandals when in these areas, and keep your feet completely covered if you have any open wounds on them. After leaving these areas, immediately wash your feet with a disinfectant soap.

3. Avoid Others’ Warts

Someone else’s warts can spread to you through direct or indirect contact. Keep your distance if someone you know, like a family member, has any on their body and do not touch their warts directly. If you do make contact, wash your hands immediately with a disinfectant soap before touching anything else. Do not share clothing, towels, shoes, or foot care tools with someone who has a wart.

If your plantar warts are causing you foot pain, reach out to the experts at Foot & Ankle Specialists in Blue Ash, OH. This podiatric office offers state-of-the-art care to people throughout the Tri-State area. Their experienced foot specialists can create personalized treatment plans for a wide range of issues, including flat feet, bone spurs, sprains, and bunions. Learn more about their services online and call (513) 541-5709 for an appointment.