Plantar Warts
Treating Painful Growths on the Feet
Stopping Pain and Preventing Spread
Plantar warts are small, rough growths that develop on the bottom of the feet, often in weight-bearing areas like the heel or ball of the foot. These warts are caused by a strain of the human papillomavirus (HPV) that enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions. Because they grow inward under pressure, plantar warts can feel like you’re walking with a pebble in your shoe, leading to pain, tenderness, or difficulty standing and walking comfortably.
At InStride Foot & Ankle of the Carolinas, Dr. Eric Ward and Dr. Blaise Woeste provide safe, effective treatment options to eliminate plantar warts, relieve discomfort, and prevent them from spreading.
Signs and Symptoms of Plantar Warts
- Small, rough growths on the sole of the foot
- Thickened skin that looks similar to a callus
- Black pinpoint dots (tiny blood vessels) in the wart
- Pain or tenderness when walking or standing
- Feeling of pressure, as if a stone is in your shoe

Untreated plantar warts can spread, multiply, or persist for months or even years.
Treatment Options for Plantar Warts
- Careful trimming to reduce thickness
- Prescription topical treatments for wart removal
- Cryotherapy (freezing) to destroy the wart tissue
- Immune-stimulating therapies to help fight the virus
- Preventive guidance on footwear and foot hygiene
Professional treatment offers faster relief and reduces the chance of recurrence.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
Talk With Foot and Ankle Specialist Today!
If you’re struggling with painful plantar warts, don’t wait for them to go away on their own. Contact InStride Foot & Ankle of the Carolinas to schedule a consultation at our Matthews or Monroe office. Our dedicated team will evaluate your condition and recommend the best treatment to get you back on your feet with confidence.
