Plantar Warts

Warts that develop on plantar surfaces (the soles of the feet) are known as plantar warts. They are normally harmless and can go away on their own, but can cause a great deal of pain. Standing and walking forces the wart further into the skin. Calluses can form as your body tries to prevent the spread of warts. Both of these instances can cause pain that is impossible to ignore. If you experience any pain on the bottom of your foot, seek the advice of a medical professional.

Here are some basic facts about plantar warts:

•  They are caused by a virus that penetrates through cuts or scrapes.
• Warts may not appear for up to months after exposure.
•  They are contagious and can easily be spread in communal showers, swimming pools, locker rooms, or during bare foot activities such as yoga. 
•   Plantar warts that grow together in a cluster are known as mosaic warts.
• They are more common in children because most people build up immunity to the virus with age.

Image by Care_SMC. Barefoot. (2008). Flickr.