Plantar warts, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), are a common skin condition that can be painful and uncomfortable. These warts typically develop on the soles of your feet, making walking and standing a painful ordeal. 

In one of our information pages, we ‘ve already talked about plantar warts and their common signs and symptoms: 

• Cauliflower appearance lesion with black dots 
• Callus surrounding borders or overlaying the lesion 
• Lesion spreading 
• Painful as if you are walking on a pebble 
• Pain on squeezing and direct pressure 
• Commonly found on heel or plantar metatarsal area of the foot 

In this article, let’s talk about the several steps you can take to avoid getting plantar warts and prevent their spread: 

Practice good foot hygiene. Keeping your feet clean and dry is essential in preventing plantar warts. Wash your feet daily with soap and water, and make sure to thoroughly dry them, especially between the toes. Moist environments can promote the growth of HPV. 

Avoid walking barefoot in public areas. Public places like swimming pools, gyms and locker rooms can harbor the HPV virus. Always wear flip-flops or protective footwear in such areas to reduce the risk of coming into contact with the virus. 

Change your socks and shoes regularly. Sweaty and damp feet create an environment conducive to plantar warts. Change your socks daily and opt for breathable shoes made from natural materials. Avoid sharing footwear with others, as this can increase the chances of spreading the virus. 

Use foot protection in high-risk environments. If you’re at an increased risk of exposure to the HPV virus, such as when using public showers or swimming in communal pools, consider using waterproof adhesive bandages or silicone toe shields to protect vulnerable areas of your feet. 

Don’t pick or scratch warts. If you do develop a plantar wart, resist the urge to pick or scratch it. This can cause the wart to spread and may lead to secondary infections. Instead, consult a healthcare professional for appropriate treatment options. 

Boost your immune system. A strong immune system can help your body fight off HPV infections. Ensure you maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, get enough sleep and manage stress to support your immune system. 

Use over-the-counter treatments with caution. Over-the-counter wart removal products can be effective but should be used with caution on plantar warts. Consult a professional before using these products, as they can cause skin damage if not used properly. 

Seek professional treatment. If you suspect you have a plantar wart or if a wart doesn’t respond to home treatments, seek professional help. A specialist can recommend effective treatments, including cryotherapy, laser therapy, or prescription medications. 

Quarantine warts to prevent spread. If you have a plantar wart, keep it covered with a bandage or adhesive tape to prevent the virus from spreading to other parts of your body or to other people. 

Follow proper hand hygiene. HPV can spread through direct contact. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching a plantar wart or any potentially contaminated surfaces. 

Early consultation, detection and treatment 

Plantar warts can be painful and persistent, but with proper precautions and hygiene practices, you can reduce your risk of developing them and prevent their spread. Remember that early detection and treatment are key to resolving plantar warts effectively. If you’re unsure about any foot condition, consult a healthcare professional for guidance and appropriate care.