What are warts?
A wart is a skin growth caused by a virus. On the feet they're usually hard and flat, with a rough surface and clear edges, and sometimes tiny black dots. Because they appear on the sole (the plantar surface), they're often called plantar warts. Children and teenagers get them more often than adults.
Some more serious skin growths, including skin cancers, can look like warts. That's why it's wise to have any unusual growth on your feet checked. Left alone, warts can grow and spread into clusters.
Common causes
Warts are caused by a virus that gets into the skin through tiny cuts and scrapes. You're more likely to pick it up when:
- Walking barefoot, especially in shared spaces
- Your skin has small cuts or cracks
- Feet stay damp for long periods
What you can do at home
To lower your risk and stop them spreading:
- Avoid walking barefoot.
- Change your shoes every day.
- Keep your feet clean and dry.
- Skip home wart treatments — they can damage healthy skin and may miss something more serious.
How a podiatrist helps
We'll confirm it's a wart and choose the treatment that suits you. Dr. Rosenfeld can:
- Examine and assess the growth
- Start in-office treatment, which may include removing it
- Prescribe medication
- Advise you on keeping warts from coming back