Verrucae (Plantar Warts) guide

What are verrucae?

Verrucae are warts that commonly occur on the soles of the feet. They are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) and can be passed on through skin‑to‑skin contact.

In many cases, verrucae will clear on their own without treatment, although this can take months or even years. They often last longer in older children and adults.

Verrucae are harmless, but they can become uncomfortable or painful, especially if they develop on a weight‑bearing area of the foot. Hard skin may form over the verruca, which can increase discomfort.

NHS podiatry services do not offer routine treatment for verrucae.

Symptoms and appearance

• Verrucae can vary in size and shape. They commonly appear as:
• A small, rough or cauliflower‑like growth on the sole of the foot
• Black dots in the centre (tiny blood vessels).

Verruca or corn?

• If the area is painful when pinched from the sides (like squeezing a spot), it is more likely to be a verruca
• If it is painful when pressed directly downwards and there are no black dots, it is more likely to be a corn.

How are verrucae spread?

The HPV virus can be spread by:

• Direct skin‑to‑skin contact
• Indirect contact through contaminated objects such as towels, shoes, floors, and communal changing areas.

The virus spreads more easily when:

• The skin is wet
• There are cuts or abrasions in the skin.

Treatment

There is no single treatment that is 100% effective, and verrucae may return. Leaving the verruca to resolve on its own is an option, particularly if it is not painful. You may wish to consider treatment if the verruca is painful or affecting daily activities.

Treatment options (not provided by Mersey Care's Podiatry Service) may include:

• Salicylic acid
• Zinc oxide
• Cryotherapy (freezing)
• Electrosurgery
• Laser therapy
• Needling
• Microwave therapy.

Your GP, pharmacist, or a private podiatrist can advise you about treatment options, as many of these treatments are not available through NHS podiatry services.

How can I prevent verrucae?

Most people will have a wart or verruca at some point in their life. You can reduce the risk of spreading infection by:

• Keeping your feet clean and healthy
• Drying your feet thoroughly after washing, especially between the toes
• Applying surgical spirits if your feet are sweaty (avoid broken skin)
• Wearing flip‑flops or pool shoes in communal areas
• Treating athlete’s foot promptly with pharmacy treatments
• Covering verrucae with a waterproof plaster when swimming
• Wearing verruca socks to reduce spread
• Avoiding picking or scratching the verruca.

Further advice

Seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or podiatrist if:

• The verruca bleeds
• It changes in appearance
• It becomes increasingly painful
• The surrounding skin becomes red, inflamed, or damaged
• You have diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system.

Our patients matter

Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust listens and responds to patients and their carers to help improve the services we deliver.

If you have any comments, compliments or concerns you can speak with a member of staff or contact our Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) and Complaints Team

Telephone: 0151 471 2377 
Freephone: 0800 328 2941 
Email: palsandcomplaints@merseycare.nhs.uk