Foot warts are caused by HPV, which can be contracted through direct contact with the virus or by walking barefoot in areas where the virus thrives, such as public showers, swimming pools, or locker rooms. The virus enters the skin through small cuts, abrasions, or areas of weakened skin.

A podiatrist can usually diagnose foot warts through a physical examination. In some cases, a biopsy or scraping may be done to rule out other skin conditions. The appearance of small, rough growths with tiny black dots typically confirms the diagnosis of plantar warts.

In some cases, warts may go away on their own without treatment, as the body’s immune system may eventually clear the virus. However, this can take months or even years. Treatment is often recommended if the wart is painful, spreading, or persistent.

To prevent foot warts, you can:

• Avoid walking barefoot in public places like swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers.
• Wear protective footwear such as flip-flops or water shoes in public areas.
• Keep your feet clean and dry, as the HPV virus thrives in warm, moist environments.
• Avoid sharing personal items such as shoes, socks, or towels with someone who has warts.
• Treat any cuts or scrapes on your feet promptly to reduce the chance of the virus entering through broken skin.

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