Heaton Podiatry - Verrucas

CONDITION

Verruca Treatment in Bolton

Verrucas are small warts that develop on the soles of the feet and are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They often appear as rough, thickened areas of skin and may contain small black dots, which are tiny blood vessels within the lesion.

Because verrucas develop on weight-bearing areas of the foot, they can become painful when walking or standing. Pressure from everyday activity may also cause the verruca to grow inward, making the discomfort more noticeable.

At Heaton Podiatry in Bolton, we provide professional assessment and treatment for verrucas using clinically proven techniques designed to remove the lesion and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

If a verruca becomes painful, spreads, or does not respond to over-the-counter treatments, professional podiatry care can help resolve the condition more effectively.

CONDITION

What Causes Verrucas?

Verrucas are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) entering the skin through small breaks or weakened areas of the skin.

Common ways the virus can spread include:

Walking barefoot in communal areas such as swimming pools or gyms
Direct skin contact with infected surfaces
Minor cuts or damage to the skin on the feet
Warm, moist environments where the virus can survive
Reduced immune response to the virus

Once the virus enters the skin, it can cause the surrounding tissue to thicken and form a verruca.

Common Symptoms of Verrucas

Verrucas can vary in appearance depending on their size and location on the foot.

You may notice:

A rough, thickened patch of skin on the sole of the foot
Small black dots within the lesion
Pain when standing or walking
Hard skin forming over the verruca
A single verruca or a cluster known as mosaic verrucae

Some verrucas remain painless, while others become uncomfortable due to pressure during walking.

How Verrucas Are Diagnosed

At Heaton Podiatry, diagnosis involves a clinical examination of the affected area to confirm whether the lesion is a verruca or another type of skin condition.

Your appointment may include:

Clinical examination
Assessment of the skin lesion and surrounding tissue.

Skin surface evaluation
Identification of features typical of verrucas such as black dots or disrupted skin lines.

Pressure assessment
Evaluation of how weight-bearing areas of the foot are affected.

Discussion of symptoms and duration
Understanding how long the verruca has been present and whether it has spread.

This allows the podiatrist to determine the most suitable treatment option.

Treatment Options for Verrucas

Treatment depends on the size, location, and duration of the verruca.

Your personalised treatment plan may include:

Professional verruca debridement to reduce hard skin
Topical treatments designed to destroy infected tissue
Verruca needling to stimulate the immune response
Advice on preventing spread or reinfection
Monitoring and follow-up care if required

The aim of treatment is to remove the verruca while encouraging the body’s immune system to eliminate the virus.

CONDITIONS

Specialist Care For Everyday & Advanced Foot Conditions

At Heaton Podiatry, we diagnose and treat a wide range of foot and lower limb conditions. From common concerns such as nail problems and heel pain to more complex issues affecting mobility and comfort, our experienced team provides personalised care to help you stay active and pain-free.