Verruca Treatment

A verruca (plantar wart) is a viral skin infection caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) on the sole of the foot. Verrucae can appear as single lesions or in clusters (mosaic verrucae) and are often characterised by a rough, cauliflower-like surface with tiny black dots (thrombosed capillaries) visible within the lesion.

While some verrucae resolve without treatment, many persist for months or years and can become painful, particularly when standing or walking. At Deal Podiatry in Deal, Kent, we offer a range of treatments to suit the size, location, duration, and individual needs of each patient.

How Are Verrucae Spread?

• Direct contact – Touching someone else's verruca or the surfaces they have walked on.

• Communal environments – Swimming pools, changing rooms, and shared showers are high-risk areas.

• Broken skin – Cuts, abrasions, or waterlogged skin make it easier for HPV to enter the body.

• Shared items – Towels and footwear can harbour the virus.

• Compromised Immunity – Persons with compromised immunity have an increased risk of verruca viral infection and spreading

Treatment Options at Deal Podiatry

• Salicylic acid – A first-line treatment that softens and destroys the infected tissue over several weeks of regular application.

• Needling (Falknor's technique) – A procedure performed under local anaesthetic that disrupts the verruca and exposes the HPV antigens to the immune system, triggering an immune response.

• SWIFT microwave therapy – A cutting-edge treatment using microwave energy to precisely heat infected tissue, stimulating a targeted immune response. Highly effective, quick, and minimal aftercare required.

• Padding & offloading – When verrucae are painful, padding reduces pressure to improve comfort during treatment.

Which Treatment Is Right for Me?

The most appropriate treatment depends on the size, number, and location of the verruca, how long it has been present, your age, health status, and lifestyle. During your consultation at Deal Podiatry, we assess all these factors and recommend the most suitable treatment pathway for you.

Verrucae in Children

Many childhood verrucae resolve naturally over time; however, painful or rapidly spreading verrucae warrant professional treatment. We are experienced in treating children gently and reassuringly at Deal Podiatry, using the most appropriate method based on age and the severity of the condition. Children should be encouraged to wear flip-flops in communal changing areas and avoid scratching or picking the verruca.

Prevention

• Wear footwear in communal areas – Pool shoes or flip-flops reduce skin-to-surface viral contact.

• Keep feet clean and dry – Maintain good foot hygiene to prevent skin breakdown.

• Do not share towels or socks – The HPV virus can survive on surfaces.

• Cover existing verrucae – Use a waterproof plaster or verruca sock when swimming.

Swift Microwave Verruca Treatment

Looking for a faster, more effective solution? Our podiatrists at Deal Podiatry are certified in Swift — the leading microwave immunotherapy treatment for verrucae.