Plantar Wart Removal — Podiatrist in Cockburn Central

Plantar warts (verrucae) are one of the most common foot conditions treated by our podiatrists in Cockburn Central. Caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), plantar warts grow on the soles of the feet and can be painful, persistent, and prone to spreading without treatment. At Cockburn Podiatry, we offer a range of effective, evidence-based wart treatments for both children and adults.

What Are Plantar Warts?

Plantar warts (verruca plantaris) are non-cancerous skin growths caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). They develop on the sole of the foot, where the pressure of body weight causes them to grow inward rather than outward — creating a hard, painful lesion. Unlike corns and calluses, warts have their own blood supply (visible as small black dots within the lesion — clotted capillaries) and disrupt the normal skin lines of the sole.

Mosaic warts are clusters of multiple small warts that merge together and can be more challenging to treat.

Symptoms of Plantar Warts

  • A rough, grainy growth on the sole of the foot, often with a cauliflower-like texture
  • Small black dots (clotted blood vessels) within the lesion
  • Pain or tenderness when walking, especially when the wart is squeezed from the sides
  • The skin’s natural lines (dermatoglyphics) are interrupted by the wart
  • In children, rapid spread to adjacent areas and multiple satellite warts

Warts vs corns: Corns are caused by pressure and have smooth, regular borders. Warts have irregular surfaces, contain black dots, and cause pain when squeezed sideways rather than directly. Our podiatrists diagnose your condition accurately before recommending treatment.

Wart Treatment in Children

Plantar warts are extremely common in children and adolescents. In children, warts tend to spread rapidly and can multiply quickly if untreated. We see children of all ages for wart treatment and take a gentle, age-appropriate approach. Treatment modality is chosen based on the child’s age, pain tolerance, and number of warts. We always explain the treatment clearly to both child and parent before proceeding.

Preventing Plantar Warts

  • Wear thongs or water shoes in public pool areas, gym showers, and changing rooms
  • Do not share towels, socks, or footwear
  • Keep feet clean and dry
  • Avoid touching or picking at warts, and wash hands thoroughly after any contact
  • Cover warts with waterproof tape or a wart cover pad when using communal facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

Do warts go away on their own?

Some warts resolve spontaneously as the immune system eliminates HPV — but this can take months to years. Warts can also spread and multiply in the meantime. In children especially, early treatment is recommended to prevent rapid spreading.

Are warts contagious?

Yes. HPV spreads via direct contact or via contaminated surfaces. They are commonly acquired at public pools and communal showers. Cover warts when using shared facilities and wear thongs in these areas.

Do I need a referral?

No referral needed. Call (08) 9417 3737 or book online. Health fund rebates are available.

Get rid of your warts with targeted, professional treatment. Call (08) 9417 3737 or book online. Cockburn Podiatry is located at Cockburn Central, serving South Lake, Yangebup, Atwell, Success, Hammond Park and all of south Perth.

Related services: Children’s Podiatry  |  Medical Pedicure