Verrucae are warts that are generally found on the soles of the feet.
They are caused by the human papilloma virus and are passed from person to person by direct or indirect contact.
Verrucae are generally harmless but if they develop on the weight bearing areas of the foot are likely to be painful because of the overlying callus (hard skin). Verrucae generally disappear of their own accord in 2 years so if painless no treatment is required.
Self treatment is possible but not recommended for people who have diabetes, have poor circulation, if pregnant or who have other conditions affecting the health of their feet.
Treatments available
Podiatrists at Orthotika will confirm whether or not you have a verruca and offer 3 options for treatment if the verruca is painful.
Debridement
Regular debridement (hard skin removal) may be all that is required to reduce discomfort. This may be the best option for children or people with diabetes or poor circulation. People who have suffered with verrucae for several years may find that debridement reduces discomfort but does not destroy the verrucae.
Salicylic Acid
This product gently destroys the surface of the skin that the virus has affected. This product is applied at weekly intervals by the podiatrist. A dressing is applied to keep the product in place and protect the surrounding skin. Salicylic acid has comparable results with cryotherapy.
Cryotherapy
This involves freezing the verruca with nitrous oxide gas. It is done at 3 weekly intervals.
It is equally as effective as salicylic acid. It can lead to soreness or blistering in some people. It is not advised for anxious or young children.
In some cases even with a course of treatment the verruca may not resolve. This could be due to the immune system not recognising the virus.
Click Here to download Orthotika’s information sheet on Verruca Treatment