Plantar warts (also called verrucae) are a common contagious skin condition caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Plantar warts form on the bottom of the foot, however we also treat warts on the top of toes. Sometimes warts are misdiagnosed as corns as they may look similar. Corns are hard skin that form due to abnormal pressure from shoes or foot posture.
Plantar warts look different to other warts as they often have callus (dry skin) which forms over the top, making them harder to treat effectively with over the counter wart treatments. They can easily spread to family members and are often caught from public places such as swimming pools and showers. Warts can be painful, stubborn, and frustrating to manage without the right care. At Brindabella Podiatry, we offer a range of evidence-based treatment options tailored to your needs and comfort.
No Referral Needed
Look After Your Feet!
Upton’s Paste: A topical chemical treatment applied under professional guidance, typically without pain. After treatment the wart is then kept dry for four days, then left uncovered for two weeks. This option works by softening and breaking down wart tissue, with the wart often coming out in one piece.
Salicylic Acid Therapy: A tried and tested topical treatment that gradually breaks down the virus and keratin with minimal discomfort. Salicylic acid is safe and effective when managed under podiatric supervision, and typically requires several sessions.
Falkner’s Needling: A minor procedure performed under local anaesthetic. The wart is punctured multiple times to introduce the virus to the deeper immune system, encouraging the body to clear it. This treatment option is typically used for stubborn or old warts that have not responded to other treatments.
Cryofreeze Spray (Cryotherapy): A quick treatment where the wart is frozen with a specialised spray, destroying infected cells and stimulating an immune response.
Every wart – and every patient – is different. During your consultation, we’ll assess the size, location, duration, and your personal preferences to recommend the most appropriate option. Each treatment option has different recovery processes that your podiatrist will explain during your consultation. Our goal is to provide safe, effective, and evidence-based care to help you get back on your feet comfortably.
If you suspect that you or your child has one or more warts on the feet, book a general podiatry appointment today.
