Swift Treatment for Plantar Warts

What are Plantar Warts?

Plantar warts are noncancerous growths that develop on the soles of the feet, often appearing near the toes, forefoot, or heel. These warts typically have a rough, grainy texture and may be surrounded by thickened skin. Many contain small black dots, which are tiny clotted blood vessels.

Symptoms of Plantar Warts

Though they can resemble calluses, plantar warts have distinct features. They may cause:

• Pain or tenderness, especially when walking or standing.
• Disruption of normal skin lines on the foot.
• Visible black dots within the lesion.
• A sensation of pressure or discomfort in the affected area.

Causese and Risk Factors

Plantar warts develop when HPV enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions. The virus thrives in warm, moist environments, making places like public pools, locker rooms, and showers high-risk areas. Additional risk factors include:

• Walking barefoot in communal spaces.
• Having a weakened immune system.
• Direct contact with someone who has a plantar wart.
• Skin conditions or injuries that compromise the protective barrier of the feet.

How Do Plantar Warts Spread?

HPV spreads through direct contact with infected skin or contaminated surfaces. The virus can linger on floors, gym mats, and shower stalls, increasing the risk of transmission. To reduce exposure:

• Wear protective footwear in public areas.
• Avoid touching warts.
• Maintain proper foot hygiene.

Diagnosing Plantar Warts

Our expert podiatrists can diagnose plantar warts through a physical examination. In some cases, we may scrape the wart’s surface to check for blood vessels or perform a biopsy for confirmation. Identifying warts early helps prevent them from spreading or worsening.

Comprehensive Plantar Warts Treatments

At Midwest Podiatry Centers, we offer a variety of treatment options, including:

• Over-the-counter medications: Salicylic acid to gradually break down wart tissue.
• Cryotherapy: Freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen to destroy infected cells.
• Prescription treatments: Stronger acids or immune-boosting therapies.
• Cantharone: A topical blistering agent that helps remove the wart.
• Needling: A technique that stimulates the immune system to fight the virus.
• Curettage & Excision: Removal procedures for stubborn or painful warts.

Advanced Swift Technology for Wart Removal

Swift therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses microwave energy to stimulate the body’s immune response. Unlike traditional methods that freeze or burn the wart, Swift targets the root cause—HPV itself—helping the body naturally eliminate the wart over time.

What to Expect with Swift Treatment

While Swift is highly effective, it does cause some discomfort. To ensure patient comfort, we often apply topical lidocaine before treatment. In cases where additional pain management is needed, we can administer lidocaine injections. A complete treatment plan typically includes three to four sessions, each lasting just a few minutes.

Preventing Plantar Warts

To lower your risk of developing plantar warts:

• Wear shoes in communal areas like locker rooms and showers.
• Keep feet clean and dry.
• Avoid sharing socks, shoes, or towels.
• Support a strong immune system with a balanced diet and good hygiene.