How to Prevent Plantar Warts This Summer

It’s a great time of year! Summer is almost here and it’s time to switch from wearing shoes with closed toes to sandals. And if you will be enjoying a lot of outdoor activities, your feet will need some extra TLC, and preventing against developing plantar warts is essential. Today Dr. Joel Segalman, Dr. Stephen Lazaroff, and Dr. Brittany Ciaramello at Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC, in New Haven County and Fairfield County are sharing important information regarding this condition.

Plantar warts are caused when HPV infects the outside layer of the skin on the sole of your feet. It usually begins as a rough and scaly patch on the skin with small dark spots.

These warts can be painful when irritated by physical activity. And when too much pressure is put on the skin of the feet, calluses can form over the wart, causing some to believe they have a callus or corn.

HPV can infect the skin on just a tiny cut or crack on the bottom of the foot and the virus can stay alive on wet and warm surfaces such as changing rooms, in the bathtub or shower stall, or at the swimming pool.

Patients are at an elevated risk for getting warts if they go barefoot, have sweaty feet or cracks in the feet. Depending on your immune system, some plantar warts can go away on their own, but painful or persistent warts will need treatment in order to prevent the spread of them.

Preventing Against Plantar Warts

Proper foot hygiene is key to preventing plantar warts. Here are some tips to help keep your feet healthy and happy.

Always wear dry and clean socks and shoes.
Clean the insides of your shoes regularly.
Don’t share towels, shoes, or socks with others.
Dry your feet thoroughly after bathing.
Don’t walk barefoot.
Clean your shower or tub regularly.

Don’t take any chances – if you think you may be experiencing symptoms of what might be a plantar wart - contact the offices Dr. Joel Segalman, Dr. Stephen Lazaroff, and Dr. Brittany Ciaramello at Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC, in New Haven County and Fairfield County to schedule a consultation.