Verrucas – they can be unsightly, embarrassing and often painful. In fact, they’re one of the most common causes of foot pain when you’re walking, and nobody wants to have to deal with that. But what can be done about them? What are the best verruca treatments? A verruca can also easily become infected, causing an even bigger problem for you and your feet.
Some commonly used forms of verruca treatments, like verruca socks, have been used for years. While many of us may remember cringing at being forced to wear one of these beastly things during high school swim classes, the truth is that verruca socks are not an effective means of managing a verruca at all. As with many foot-related issues, there are plenty of over-the-counter options for verrucas, and most of them don’t really work.
What Is A Verruca?
Verrucas are small, often rough growths or lumps on your skin, characterised by a black dot at the centre. They’re caused by a viral infection, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), which have various different subtypes that cause other issues like cold sores.
Verrucas usually appear on the soles of your feet, particularly around the heel or ball of the foot. Different subtypes of HPV create different forms of warts, but while they may look similar, verrucas are not the same as warts, and need to be treated differently.
The Best Verruca Treatments
With so many over-the-counter treatments having low success rates, it’s alarmingly easy to waste a lot of money trying to get rid of a verruca to no avail. Fortunately, help is at hand! Here are 5 of the best verruca treatments, from the podiatrists at Northwich Foot Clinic…
1. Swift Microwave Therapy
Swift Microwave Therapy is a cutting-edge treatment for the removal of verrucas and warts. Swift utilises the power of microwave energy, which it delivers to the affected area with a special probe. The treatment is extremely fast – it takes just five seconds – and no anaesthetic or dressings are required. Within three sessions, 83% of even the most stubborn verrucas are cleared, giving it one of the highest success rates of all verruca treatments. The best part? You can resume normal activity as soon as you walk out of the door.
For more information check out our guide to Verruca Microwave Therapy…
2. Verruca Needling
Verruca needling involves a podiatrist puncturing the wart or verruca with a small needle. This causes bleeding and stimulates the body’s immune system response, which destroys the virus. Verruca needling takes place under local anaesthetic, and one of the huge benefits of this procedure is that one treatment is enough to get rid of verrucas – making it ideal for busy people. As with all of the best verruca treatments, a follow-up session 6-8 weeks later will be booked in to ensure that the treatment has been effective.
For more information check out our guide to Verruca Needling…
3. Omega Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is among the best verruca treatments for children. The Omega laser uses low level laser light to stimulate the body’s healing cells, enabling it to effectively fight the virus that causes verrucas. The laser therapy is not painful, because the low level cannot burn or harm the skin. No dressings or anaesthetic are required.
For more information check out our guide to Omega Laster Therapy…
4. Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy involves the use of liquid nitrogen to freeze the verruca until it falls off. A verruca will usually take between five and 30 seconds to freeze off, depending on the size. The treatment often needs to be repeated (up to six times), and it can be painful – in some circumstances it can lead to blistering of the skin.
5. Salicylic Acid Treatment
Most verruca treatments that are sold over-the-counter contain salicylic acid. This is an ingredient that softens the hard, outer layer of your verruca. This can, over time, encourage your body’s own healing process to kick in and fight the virus. However, these treatments can take a long time to work and they can cause irritation to healthy skin if they are not applied correctly.
Understanding Verruca Causes and Prevention
While seeking the most effective verruca treatment is crucial, understanding what causes verrucas and how to prevent them is equally important. Verrucas are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), which thrives in warm, moist environments such as public pools and changing rooms. To avoid contracting verrucas, always wear waterproof footwear in communal wet areas and maintain a high standard of foot hygiene. Regular checks of your feet for any signs of verrucas can help catch them early, making treatment easier and more effective.
Customised Verruca Treatment Plans at Northwich Foot Clinic
At Northwich Foot Clinic, we understand that each foot is unique. That’s why we offer personalised verruca treatment plans designed to suit your specific needs. Our team of experienced podiatrists will assess your verruca, considering factors like its size, duration, and your overall health before recommending a treatment plan. This bespoke approach ensures that you receive the most effective treatment, whether it’s Swift Microwave Therapy, Verruca Needling, or another method from our comprehensive range of options.
The Role of Lifestyle in Verruca Management
Managing verrucas effectively goes beyond clinical treatments; your lifestyle choices play a pivotal role too. Ensuring your feet remain clean and dry, choosing well-fitting breathable footwear, and avoiding walking barefoot in public areas can all help prevent verruca formation and aid in the healing process. Additionally, boosting your immune system through a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can make you less susceptible to HPV infections.
Why Choose Northwich Foot Clinic for Your Verruca Treatment
Choosing the right clinic for your verruca treatment is essential. Northwich Foot Clinic offers a combination of expert podiatrists, cutting-edge treatments, and a patient-centred approach, making us a leader in foot care services in the UK. Our dedication to employing the latest research and techniques ensures high success rates, with treatments that are both effective and minimally invasive. Trust us to help you walk more comfortably and confidently.
How To Find The Best Verruca Treatments For You
Don’t let verrucas affect your quality of life. If you’re experiencing foot pain or discomfort from verrucas, or if you’re seeking preventive care, contact Northwich Foot Clinic today. Our friendly team is here to provide expert advice and guide you towards the best verruca treatment for your situation. Visit our website or call us to book your consultation and take the first step towards healthier, happier feet.
We know that you will want an effective, quick session to banish those verrucas. As a result, we offer Swift Microwave Therapy, Verruca Needling and Omega Laser Therapy, as we have found these to be the best forms of treatment.
Which one will be best for you will depend on a few different factors, so it’s best to book an appointment at our clinic in Northwich, and one of our highly trained podiatrists will assess your verruca and advise on the best course of treatment. Don’t worry if you’re further afield, we see patients from all over Cheshire and the Northwest.
