May 2025

Plantar warts are small growths that appear on the soles of the feet, caused by a virus that enters through tiny cuts or breaks in the skin. They often form in weight-bearing areas, making walking uncomfortable. These warts may look like rough, flat spots with black dots in the center. Over time, they can grow deeper and become painful. It is wise to avoid picking or scratching them, as this can spread the virus. Mild treatments may help in mild cases, but persistent warts often need medical care. A chiropodist may use freezing, topical medication or other minor procedures to remove the wart safely. Keeping feet clean, dry, and protected in public places can help prevent future infections. If you have a foot growth that does not go away or becomes painful, it is suggested that you see a chiropodist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Plantar warts can be uncomfortable or even painful. If you’re suffering from warts on your feet, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

What Does a Plantar Wart Look Like? 

Plantar warts are fleshy growths that generally have a rough, grainy texture. They may look and feel like a callus and are usually small and can grow individually or in clusters. Plantar warts may have small, black dots at their center that are actually tiny blood vessels. Warts interrupt the natural lines of your skin. 

Treatment Options

• Salicylic acid - A chemical solution applied directly to the wart

• Cryotherapy - Freezing the wart off with liquid nitrogen

• Minor surgery - Removing the wart through excision

• Laser treatment - A concentrated beam of light is used to remove the wart

• Wearing comfortable shoes and socks to avoid irritating the wart

• Over-the-counter medications for pain relief

• Patches to keep pressure off the warts

Plantar warts can go away on their own, but this may take several months to years. If your plantar warts are bothering you, seeking medical treatment is suggested. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An infected blister on the foot can develop due to several common but preventable causes. Poor hygiene is a leading contributor, as dirt and bacteria can accumulate around the feet and create an environment prone to infection. Popping a blister with unclean or sharp objects can introduce harmful bacteria directly into the wound. Similarly, contact with contaminated surfaces such as floors or shoes can allow bacteria to enter the blister, especially if the skin has already been compromised. Symptoms of an infected blister include increasing redness surrounding the area, swelling, pain, and warmth to the touch. The blister may fill with cloudy or yellow fluid, and the surrounding skin might emit an unpleasant odor. If you have a blister on your foot that has become infected, it is suggested that you promptly contact a chiropodist who can offer effective relief and prevention tips.

Blisters can usually be treated at home, however, if you have recurring blisters or experience significant discomfort or pain, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is a Blister? 

A blister is a small pocket of fluid in the upper skin layers and is one of the body’s natural responses to injury or pressure. Blisters can also result from burns, fungal or viral skin infections, and the feet are particularly prone due to ill-fitting footwear and friction. Friction on the skin causes the upper layer of skin to separate from the lower layers. The space that this separation creates then becomes filled with a liquid called serum, which protects the lower layers of skin. 

Treatment 

If you notice a blister on your foot, you can cover it with a soft bandage or dressing to protect it. Popping the blister is discouraged. Doing so exposes the raw skin underneath it to bacteria and also raises the risk of infection. If a blister pops naturally, let it drain before covering it with a bandage. Blisters usually heal on their own or with home treatment, however, if your blister is recurring, very painful, or appears infected, it is recommended that you see a chiropodist for treatment. 

Prevention

You can help to prevent blisters by wearing comfortable, well-fitted shoes. Keep your feet dry by wearing moisture-wicking socks and dust your feet with talcum powder if they tend to get sweaty. If you have areas on your feet that are more susceptible to blisters, you might be able to prevent the blister from forming by covering it with a pad. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.