Duct Tape for Plantar Warts: Urban Legend?
Plantar warts are viral infections that usually develop on the soles of the feet, where they are typically flattened by the pressure of walking and are surrounded by thickened skin. They tend to be hard and flat, with a rough surface and well-defined boundaries. Warts may also appear on the top of the foot or toes where they are usually raised and fleshier.
Warts are often flesh tone and have small black dots in the center. Unlike corns and calluses, plantar warts tend to bleed when debrided due to the many tiny blood vessels.
Plantar warts don’t discriminate…they plague people of all ages.
Treating Plantar Warts
Generally speaking, warts can be removed 3 ways:
- topical chemicals
- frozen off (may be too painful for children)
- burned off with a laser or electrical current (more painful than freezing and usually leaves a scar.
We see so many patients with plantar warts, we introduced a Home Care Kit especially for warts. Each kit ($25) consists of 40% salicylic acid, bandages, emery board, instruction guide, padding, and surface disinfectant spray. This enables patients to keep the treatment going on at home.
Here’s where the duct tape comes in – and it works beautifully. After following the instructions, apply the bandage, and then duct tape on top of the bandage. Why duct tape? It creates a perfect seal, keeping the wart moist, which is perfect for treating those pesky warts.
Preventing Plantar Warts
- Always wear flip-flops or sandals in public showers or public areas – this helps prevent contact with viruses such as warts.
- Carefully wash and thoroughly dry your feet.
- Inspect your feet regularly for changes.
- See your Chiropodist/Podiatrist regularly.
Always check with your Chiropodist or Podiatrist before trying or buying any over the counter remedy for the removal of warts.
