Many warts that appear on the feet are harmless and do not cause any pain. Warts may appear as a fleshy growth on top of the skin, or look similar to a corn but larger. Often, they disappear on their own without treatment but can reappear. They can also spread and form clusters. Warts are caused by viruses that enter the body through tiny openings in the skin.

Plantar warts are found on the soles of the feet and can become very painful. They appear to be flush with the bottom of the foot, but most of its growth is under the surface. When they grow larger and up into the foot they become intensely painful, which makes weight bearing extremely uncomfortable. Warm moist environments allow this virus to flourish so avoid walking barefoot in public pools, showers and locker rooms. This type of wart can be spread by touch or contact with other infected skin. To avoid spreading them to others, always wear foot protection and because they can spread on your own body, consult with Dr. Gauntt and get them treated as soon as possible.

Because the plantar wart virus thrives in warm moist conditions your minimalists provide, you may want to consider temporarily going back to shoes and socks until your warts have been treated. The virus can exist in your minimalist footwear and re-enter your body through tiny breaks in your skin. Plantar warts can become so painful that even walking becomes a dreaded chore.

At all costs do what you can to avoid spreading warts. Obeying the following tips is a good way to start:

• Avoid direct contact with warts from other parts of the body and from other people
• Avoid walking barefoot
• Keep feet clean and dry
• Change shoes and socks daily and allow to dry in fresh air and sunlight
• Alternate shoes

If you suspect you have plantar warts, please consult a podiatrist. If they are interfering with your running game, discuss treatment options with him. Call the Hillsboro office at (503) 648-1713, the Newberg office at (503) 538-0466 or the Beaverton office at (503) 292-9252 for an appointment. Our office can evaluate your case and discuss treatment options with you. Because they resist treatment, over the counter medications seldom work. We are experienced and can match a treatment method to your needs. He’ll have you back pounding the pavement in no time.

K.G. Gauntt, DPM