Plantar warts (also known as verruca pedis) are common skin lesions on the soles of the feet. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which spreads through direct contact with contaminated surfaces, particularly in moist environments, such as public swimming pools, communal bathrooms, and gyms.

The main difference between plantar warts and other types of warts is that they tend to “grow in” rather than grow out, so they can be more painful and more challenging to treat.

Plantar warts, which may present as individual lesions or in clusters, are more common than you might think. In Western countries, it is estimated that 10% of children will be affected by a plantar wart at any given time. They are most common in children in their second decade of life and older people, but they may occur at any age.

Plantar warts are frequently misdiagnosed as calluses or corns, so getting a correct diagnosis is essential. 

Plantar warts can resolve spontaneously. However, when they are painful, longstanding or recurrent, unsightly, or due to concerns about infecting friends and family, treatment is considered. It’s important to remember that there are no shortcuts to treating warts. The best available evidence is multiple applications of salicylic acid, and debridement is still the most effective treatment. Other methods include needling under local anesthetic. Laser and Swift microwave treatment is another option, but it is also quite expensive and not always successful. Not all warts are suitable for surgery, which is recommended if other treatments have failed. Patience and understanding are key in wart treatment.