Laser Treatment for Plantar Warts
Treatments for Plantar Warts #1
This patient presented after 2 years of treatments for plantar warts at another local podiatrist. Treatment included debridement and application of sal acid paste 70% with occlusion, every two weeks for two years. OTC wart remover products are usually made from 24% or less sal acid paste products. The Planters warts treated got no better, and in fact spread.
Treatments for Plantar Warts #2
Our treatment consisted of debridement and laser treatment of plantar warts . Cantharidic acid was applied as a blistering agent to help with debridement of devitalized wart tissue at the next appointment. Wart laser treatment works by cutting off the blood supply to the wart. This is a gentle laser used to erase the broken capillaries on women’s faces. Its so gentle that even small children can tolerate it.
The wavelength of light emitted by the laser is selectively effective against the chromatophores in the hemoglobin of blood in the small vessels that feed the warts. Without a constant blood supply to feed this viral tumor, it dies. At each treatment we can get deeper , until we get to the base of the older more established warts. New small verruca can be killed with sometimes one treatment, so the earlier you seek treatment the better. The black dots in the picture above are the “cooked wart tissue” with no damage to the surrounding tissue
Treatments for Plantar Warts #3
By the third treatment the warts on the foot were already disappearing. The patient was amazed, after suffering for so long.
Treatments for Plantar Warts #4
This is our patient on visit 4. A final laser treatment was administered to ensure all warty tissue was killed. It has been 2 years and the warts have not returned.
Home Remedies For Plantar Warts
Home remedies are one of the best solutions for any kind of medical problem especially if your situation is mild.
However if its serious then you must avoid them and look for medical treatments. These are some of the most effective home remedies for plantar warts:
1. Tea Tree Oil
Everyone knows about tea tree oil, but did you know it has been used as a skin antiseptic for a long time?
It can used as an antifungal lotion for wounds, injuries, infections and acne. It is not designed to kill the plantar wart virus. However, if other conditions are causing breaks in the skin that allow wart virus access, it will improve regrowth. In addition, products to improve overall skin health are available in our offices. Have the Dr. recommend which is best for your condition.
You can use this remedy by applying a little amount of dilute tea tree oil to your plantar warts.
You should apply it twice a day until you don’t see any results!
VerruStat™ Liquid Wart Remover
It is a unique wart removing formula with added Vitamin A, Retinyl Palmitate, and agents to increase pass through. In addition, it is available in our offices, and is best used after the more heavy hitting office treatments available. For instance, this will help to slough off the dead tissue killed during swift and laser appointments.
VerruStat™ has been specially made for the topical removal of proven plantar warts. VerruStatTM is dispensed only by physicians.
VerruStat™ is the first physician product to employ this vitamin A derivative). Penetration-enhancer MSM is the product vehicle. As a result, this unique product has been designed specially for Podiatrists.
How long does it typically take for various wart treatments to show results?
The time it takes for wart treatments to show results can vary depending on the method used, the type and size of the wart, and individual factors. Here is a general overview of timeframes for different wart treatments:
- Over-the-Counter Topical Treatments (Salicylic Acid): It may take several weeks of consistent application for visible improvement. Complete removal may take a few months.
- Cryotherapy (Freezing): Results can be seen within a week or two after the treatment. However, multiple sessions may be required for complete removal.
- Prescription Medications: Depending on the medication, it may take several weeks to months for noticeable results. Follow the prescribed treatment plan.
- Laser Therapy: Laser treatments can show immediate results in terms of shrinkage or changes in appearance, but multiple sessions may be needed for complete removal.
Can duct tape be used as a home remedy for wart removal, and how does it work?
Yes, duct tape has been used as a home remedy for wart removal, a method known as the “duct tape occlusion therapy.” The exact mechanism by which duct tape works is not entirely clear, and research results on its effectiveness are mixed. However, the method is simple and involves the following steps:
- Clean the Area: Before applying duct tape, clean the wart and the surrounding skin thoroughly.
- Cut a Piece of Duct Tape: Cut a piece of duct tape that is slightly larger than the wart.
- Apply the Duct Tape: Place the duct tape directly over the wart, ensuring good adherence to the skin.
- Keep the Tape in Place: Leave the duct tape in place for about six days.
- Remove the Tape: After six days, remove the duct tape, soak the wart in water, and gently rub the wart with an emery board or pumice stone to remove dead skin.
How can I differentiate between a plantar wart and other skin conditions on my foot?
To differentiate between a plantar wart and other skin conditions on your foot, consider the following characteristics:
- Appearance: Plantar warts typically have a rough, grainy appearance with small black dots (often called “wart seeds”) scattered throughout. They may also have a cauliflower-like appearance. Other skin conditions, such as calluses or corns, may appear smoother and more uniform.
- Location: Plantar warts usually occur on weight-bearing areas of the foot, such as the heels or balls of the feet. They may also develop on pressure points where friction occurs. Other skin conditions may occur in different locations or have a more widespread distribution.
Can plantar warts come back after treatment?
Yes, plantar warts can come back after treatment. Even with successful treatment, there is a risk of recurrence because the human papillomavirus (HPV) that causes plantar warts can remain dormant in the skin and become active again. Additionally, incomplete removal of the wart during treatment can leave behind small fragments of the virus that can lead to regrowth.
Can I continue my regular activities if I have plantar warts?
In most cases, you can continue your regular activities if you have plantar warts, but you may need to take certain precautions to prevent them from spreading or becoming more painful. Here are some tips:
- Protective Measures: Wear clean socks and shoes to reduce the risk of spreading the virus to other people or other parts of your body.
- Avoid Walking Barefoot: Plantar warts are contagious, so avoid walking barefoot in public places to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
- Pain Management: If the plantar warts are painful, consider using cushioned insoles or pads to reduce pressure on the warts while walking or standing.
Call us today 878-313-3338 to schedule at any of our four Podiatry Clinics in Beaver, Butler, or Allegheny County locations, including Podiatry offices Moon Township, Ambridge, Cranberry Township’s full service Podiatric office and our newest Foot Clinic, Beaver, PA