If you're dealing with a stubborn verruca, you're not alone! Verrucas, a common type of wart that appears on the soles of the feet, can be more than just an eyesore—they can cause discomfort, and, in some cases, pain. At The Functional Podiatrist in Richmond, we’re here to guide you through understanding, managing, and eliminating verrucas effectively.
What Is a Verruca?
A verruca is a type of wart caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), specifically when it infects the outer layer of skin on your feet. These warts often appear as rough, raised spots with a hard surface and can have small black dots in the center—these are tiny blood vessels that have become clotted. Verrucas are contagious and can be contracted from walking barefoot on moist surfaces like swimming pools or communal showers.
How Did I Get a Verruca?
Verrucas thrive in warm, moist environments, making places like public swimming pools, gyms, and changing rooms perfect breeding grounds for the virus. If the skin on your feet has even the smallest break or cut, HPV can find its way in, leading to the development of a verruca. The virus is often passed through direct contact with surfaces that have been touched by someone already infected.
What Does a Verruca Look Like?
Verrucas are often flat or slightly raised and typically occur on the weight-bearing areas of the foot, such as the heel or the ball of the foot. They may be tender to touch or painful when pressure is applied, such as when standing or walking. Often, they’re confused with corns or calluses, but unlike these, verrucas usually have a rougher surface and may display those characteristic black dots.
Effective Verruca Treatments: Options at The Functional Podiatrist
While verrucas can resolve on their own, they may take months or even years to disappear without treatment. Thankfully, we offer several proven treatments to speed up the process and relieve discomfort:
1. Salicylic Acid Treatment
Salicylic acid is an over-the-counter remedy that can be applied topically to break down the verruca’s thickened skin. At The Functional Podiatrist, we use a higher concentration of salicylic acid to ensure maximum effectiveness. We recommend that the area be kept clean, dry, and covered during treatment to prevent spreading.
2. Cryotherapy (Freezing Treatment)
Cryotherapy involves applying liquid nitrogen to the verruca to freeze and destroy the affected tissue. This treatment can take several sessions depending on the size and number of verrucas. It's a fast and effective option that can be performed at our clinic with minimal downtime.
3. Verruca Needling Technique
Verruca needling is a highly effective, in-clinic procedure, where a local anesthetic is used to numb the area before we use a sterile needle to puncture the verruca multiple times. This technique stimulates the immune system to recognize and attack the viral cells. It's ideal for long-standing or stubborn verrucas, and often, only one treatment is required.
Why Choose The Functional Podiatrist?
At The Functional Podiatrist in Richmond, our team of trained professionals understands how verrucas can impact your day-to-day life. Whether you're dealing with a painful verruca or just want to clear it up before it spreads, we’re here to help with the latest treatments. Our expert podiatrists will assess your verruca, discuss the best treatment option for you, and guide you through the process, ensuring a comfortable and efficient experience.
Don't let a verruca slow you down—book an appointment with us today and take the first step towards pain-free feet!
Contact Us Today!
Contact The Functional Podiatrist to schedule an appointment and let us help you put your best foot forward!
02035760630