Plantar warts are small, rough growths that typically appear on the bottom of the feet, often on the balls and heels due to constant pressure. These warts are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, entering through small cuts or weak points in the skin. Although plantar warts often resolve on their own in children, adults may need more proactive treatment. A podiatrist can offer a variety of medical treatments to eliminate plantar warts effectively. Cryotherapy, which involves freezing the wart, is a common clinical procedure, as is using prescription-strength salicylic acid to gradually peel away the wart. For persistent cases, options like minor surgical removal, laser therapy, or immunotherapy may be recommended. These treatments aim to remove the wart and reduce the risk of recurrence by addressing both the wart itself and the virus. If you have a plantar wart, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Florida Ankle & Foot Institute. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Tavernier, Marathon, and Key West, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

High heels are a popular shoe choice for many, but they can often lead to painful foot blisters. The structure of high heels places excessive pressure on specific areas of the feet, particularly the toes and the heel, which can cause friction against the shoe material. This friction, combined with sweat and prolonged wear, creates an ideal environment for blisters to form. To avoid this discomfort, selecting well-fitted shoes with adequate padding and support is essential. Wearing thick socks or protective blister pads can help reduce friction. It is also beneficial to gradually break in new heels by wearing them for short periods. Additionally, maintaining foot hygiene and keeping feet dry can minimize the risk of blisters. If you have problematic blisters from wearing high heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you relief and additional prevention tips.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Florida Ankle & Foot Institute. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Tavernier, Marathon, and Key West, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common condition that can be difficult to treat. Traditional conservative treatments, such as antifungal medications and topical solutions, often require lengthy durations and may not deliver satisfactory results. In contrast, toenail laser treatment offers a promising alternative. This innovative approach utilizes focused light to target and eliminate fungal organisms without damaging surrounding tissue. Clinical studies indicate that laser treatment can significantly reduce fungal presence and promote healthy nail regrowth more effectively than more conservative methods. Additionally, laser treatment typically involves fewer side effects and a shorter recovery time. While results may vary depending on the severity of the infection, many patients report improvement after just one or two sessions. For those struggling with persistent toenail fungus, laser treatment presents a compelling option to consider for achieving lasting results. If you have developed this unsightly condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if laser treatment is right for you.

Laser treatment can be an effective way to get rid of toenail fungus. If you have any questions about laser treatment, consult with one of our podiatrists from Florida Ankle & Foot Institute. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment for fungal nails.

What Are Toenail Fungal Infections?

Onychomycosis, or fungal infection of the nail, is a relatively common and non-serious condition. Around 10 percent of U.S. citizens are afflicted with fungal nails. Common forms of fungus that infect the nail include dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.

Symptoms of Toenail Fungal Infections Include:

• Nail thickening
• Brittleness of the nail
• Discoloration of the nail

Diagnosis for Fungal Nails

Fungal infections are diagnosed by fungal culture and microscopy. This will rule out any other conditions such as nail trauma, psoriasis, lichen planus, and onychogryphosis.

What Is Laser Treatment?

Laser treatment is a non-invasive, safe, quick, and painless procedure that uses the heat from a laser to kill fungus in the nail. Each infected nail is targeted with a laser for several minutes. The treatment is usually utilized several different times over a select period. During this time, a podiatrist will keep an eye on the infection.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Tavernier, Marathon, and Key West, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.