Verrucae are simply warts that appear on the soles of the feet or around the toes. They are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), which is highly contagious and spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact. While there are many strains of HPV, the ones causing verrucae are specific to the skin.
How do you catch verrucas?
The virus thrives in warm, damp environments—think swimming pools, communal showers, and gym changing rooms. You can contract a verruca simply by walking across a floor previously used by an infected person. Small, often invisible nicks or scratches on your feet make it easier for the virus to enter the skin.
Who is most at risk?
Verrucae are most common in children and teenagers, largely due to frequent use of communal facilities. While some people develop a natural immunity over time, many remain susceptible.
How to identify a verruca
Look for these common signs:
- A small, “cauliflower-like” growth on the sole of the foot.
- Tiny black dots (these are small, clotted blood vessels).
- Pinch pain: Verrucae are often more painful when squeezed (like a spot) than when pressed directly.
- They can appear individually or in “mosaic” clusters.
Are they serious?
While generally harmless, verrucae can become very painful if they develop on weight-bearing areas like the heel or ball of the foot. Commonly, the body produces hard skin (callus) over the wart, which increases the pressure and discomfort.
Verruca Treatment Options at Foot Pain Centres of Leeds
In many cases, the body’s immune system will eventually clear the virus naturally (often within 6 months for children, though it can take up to 2 years for adults). If the verruca is painless, leaving it alone is often the best course of action.
However, if it is painful, spreading, or unsightly, we offer several professional treatments:
First-Stage Treatment:
- Professional Strength Acids: Stronger and more effective than over-the-counter pharmacy kits.
If treatment is not working, or you first present with stubborn verrucae that have previously not responded to treatment, we will discuss the following treatment options.
- Needling: A minor procedure under local anaesthetic that “triggers” the body’s immune system to recognise and fight the virus.
Surgical excision under local anaesthetic
Prevention Tips
- Wear Flip-Flops: Always use footwear in communal changing rooms and showers.
- Don’t Share: Avoid sharing towels, shoes, or socks.
- Dry Thoroughly: Ensure feet are dry after washing, especially between the toes.
- Use Verruca Socks: If you have an active verruca, wear a waterproof sock while swimming to protect others.
When to see a Podiatrist
You should seek professional help if:
- You have diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system (never self-treat in these cases).
- The verruca is becoming increasingly painful or spreading.
- Over-the-counter treatments have failed to work.
- The surrounding skin becomes red, hot, or inflamed.
To book a verruca assessment
Stop hiding your feet. Click here to schedule your professional verruca treatment and get back to the pool with confidence.