Plantar warts are small, rough growths that develop on the soles of the feet, often causing discomfort or pain when walking. They are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, which enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions. The virus thrives in warm, moist environments, making public areas like swimming pools, showers, and gym floors common places for transmission. Plantar warts typically appear as firm, raised bumps with a rough texture and may have small black dots in the center, which are blood vessels. The pressure from walking or standing often causes them to grow inward, making them more painful. Although plantar warts are generally not dangerous, they can be extremely painful. If you have developed a plantar wart, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.
Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Eveleigh Williams, DPM from Sole 2 Sole, PC. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
About Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.
While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.
Symptoms
- Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
- Hard or thick callused spots
- Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
- Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing
Treatment
- Freezing
- Electric tool removal
- Laser Treatment
- Topical Creams (prescription only)
- Over-the-counter medications
To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Olympia Fields, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, caused by a misalignment of the toe joint. As the big toe moves inward, the joint sticks out, causing pain, redness, and swelling. Symptoms of bunions can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, making it difficult to wear certain shoes or walk for long periods. In some cases, bunions may also cause corns or calluses to form on the toes. The primary causes of bunions include wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, genetics, and certain medical conditions like arthritis. To prevent bunions, it is important to wear shoes that provide enough room for the toes, particularly shoes with a wide toe box. Regular foot exercises to strengthen and stretch the muscles in the feet can also help reduce the risk of developing bunions. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can monitor its development, and offer effective relief tips.
If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Eveleigh Williams, DPM of Sole 2 Sole, PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Bunion?
Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.
Causes
- Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
- Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development
Symptoms
- Redness and inflammation
- Pain and tenderness
- Callus or corns on the bump
- Restricted motion in the big toe
In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Olympia Fields, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
As people age, they often experience a variety of foot problems that can significantly impact their mobility and quality of life. Plantar fasciitis is a common issue among seniors that is characterized by heel pain due to inflammation of the plantar fascia. Bunions, or painful bony bumps at the base of the big toe, can develop from years of wearing ill-fitting shoes. Corns, which are thickened areas of skin caused by friction, also frequently affect seniors. Osteoarthritis can lead to joint pain and stiffness in the feet, affecting mobility. Additionally, Achilles tendinitis, an inflammation of the Achilles tendon, can cause discomfort at the back of the heel. Addressing these conditions early through wearing proper footwear, doing targeted stretching exercises, and medical intervention can help seniors maintain their independence and enjoy a more active lifestyle.If you are elderly and have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, in addition to monitoring your foot health.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Eveleigh Williams, DPM from Sole 2 Sole, PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
- Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
- Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
- Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
- Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
- Pressure sores
- Loss of circulation in legs & feet
- Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Olympia Fields, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.