What it is
Warts are small skin growths caused by a virus in the human papillomavirus (HPV) family. Plantar warts show up on the soles of the feet, and because of the pressure from walking, running and lifting, they often grow inward and can feel like a pebble in your shoe.
The virus tends to spread in warm, damp places where people go barefoot, such as pool decks, locker rooms, showers and gym floors. Tiny breaks in the skin can make it easier for the virus to get in. That is why swimmers, runners and gym-goers often hear about them, but anyone can get a wart.
Not every spot on the foot is a wart. Calluses, corns and other skin changes can look similar, and so can some skin cancers. Only a licensed clinician can tell what a growth is, so an exam is the right first step rather than guessing at home.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Warts have traditionally been approached in several ways, and some go away on their own over time as the body responds to the virus. Many people start with over-the-counter products, such as salicylic acid preparations, which are generally used to gradually soften the wart tissue. These are sold without a prescription, though they are not right for everyone.
In a clinic, providers have long used methods such as cryotherapy (freezing), minor in-office procedures, prescription topical preparations, and laser wart removal. Immunotherapy for warts, which aims to encourage the body's own immune response, is another approach some providers discuss, particularly for warts that keep returning.
Which approach is considered depends on the location, size and number of warts, a person's health history, and their goals. Results vary from person to person, and warts can return after any approach. Specific prescription products and their current FDA status are best checked with your provider.
How the right provider may help
The right provider, such as a dermatologist, podiatrist or primary care clinician, may start by looking at the area, asking how long it has been there, and asking about your training, footwear and any pain. They may confirm whether it appears to be a wart or something else. A visit is generally a conversation, not a commitment.
You might ask: Is this definitely a wart? What options exist for my situation, and what are the trade-offs? How might treatment affect my training, swimming or time on my feet? What should I do about shared showers and pool decks? What if it comes back?
If you have diabetes, poor circulation, neuropathy or a weakened immune system, tell your provider before treating any wart yourself, especially on the feet. A clinician decides what is appropriate after an evaluation, and a provider may be able to help you make a plan that fits your activity, though no outcome is guaranteed.
The whole-person view
Body, mind and stress affect each other. Lingering foot pain can change how you move, and frustration over a wart that keeps returning can wear on motivation, confidence and sleep. Stress and rest also play a role in overall health, which is one reason a whole-person view can be useful.
Some people find body-based support, such as the approaches offered through Somatic Experiences, helpful for reconnecting with their bodies after a stressful stretch. Others prefer talking with a licensed counselor through Therapists.plus about embarrassment or frustration. Neither replaces a medical exam, and both are simply options to consider alongside care from a licensed provider.
Somatic Experiences: nervous system regulation →Therapists.plus: anxiety panic and ocd →
Keep in mind
- A growth that is changing, bleeding, itching, irregular in shape or color, or not healing should be checked by a dermatologist for skin cancer, and should not be self-treated. The ABCDEs of melanoma are only a general guide, not a way to diagnose yourself.
- Never cut, burn or dig out a wart at home, which can cause injury or infection. Facial and genital warts should not be treated with over-the-counter wart products.
- Warts can return, and no treatment is guaranteed to remove them or prevent recurrence. Results vary, so ask a licensed provider what to expect.
- For emergencies call 911; in a crisis call or text 988. Providers.plus lists licensed providers if you are looking for someone to see.
Providers who often help
Get matched privatelyFrequently asked questions
What is the best wart removal option for plantar warts?
There is no single best option, because it depends on the wart and on you. A dermatologist or podiatrist can examine it and discuss choices such as freezing, laser, prescription preparations or immunotherapy. Results vary and warts can return.
Why do my warts keep coming back?
Warts are caused by a virus, and the virus can remain in or around the skin or be picked up again from damp shared surfaces. Because of this, warts can return after any approach. A provider can talk with you about options for recurring warts.
Can I get plantar warts from the pool or gym?
Yes, it is possible. The virus can spread in warm, damp, barefoot places like locker rooms, showers and pool decks. Many people wear sandals or water shoes in these spaces, and a provider can offer more guidance.
Is wart removal safe to do at home?
Over-the-counter products are available and are used by many people, but they are not right for everyone. People with diabetes, poor circulation, neuropathy or a weakened immune system should ask a provider first, and no one should cut, burn or dig out a wart at home.
Should I keep training with a plantar wart?
Whether to keep training depends on your comfort, the location and your provider's advice. Ask a clinician how activity, pressure and shared spaces might affect the wart. They can also advise on protecting the area and others.
How do I know it is a wart and not skin cancer?
You cannot reliably tell on your own. Any growth that is changing, bleeding, itching, irregular in shape or color, or not healing should be checked by a dermatologist. Do not self-treat it.
Educational resource. Warts.ai shares general information and connects people with independent providers. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.