Plantar Wart

A plantar wart is a wart that develops on the bottom part of the foot. It may look like a small growth and eventually spread to form a colony of warts. The skin may start to thicken and possibly look similar to a callus. On the surface of the wart, there may be a black dot. Warts are accompanied by pain over the area of the wart whenever the wart is disturbed, such as during walking. Cause Warts are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV), which enters the skin through a tiny cut or tear and begins infecting the skin of the foot. Warts develop more easily in those who are immuno-compromised. They are common in the elderly, children and adolescents. Treatment and Prevention Warts die when subjected to cold treatments so doctors often freeze a wart off the foot. They may also use different types of medication that will kill a wart. However, warts will return unless the underlying immunity is addressed. Immune system boosting herbs and supplements can address the immunity. Herbs such as astragalus and cat’s claw boost immune system function while supplements such as vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, selenium and zinc can be added to one’s diet and enhance the immune system response. Whenever these nutrients are low, the immunity is compromised. When levels are restored, viral infections clear up. It’s best to see a qualified nutritionist to help determine why the immune system may be compromised by nutrient deficiencies. Since warts do take time to heal, it’s important to have cushy inserts and possibly metatarsal pads or other orthotic aids to relieve the pain and pressure of the wart.