Verrucae are a common foot problem that many people will experience at some point in their lives. They’re caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and appear as small, rough growths on the soles of the feet. While they’re not usually serious, they can be painful, uncomfortable, and sometimes stubborn to shift. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to prevent verrucae – and also plenty of ways to treat verrucae.
How to Prevent Verrucae
It is best to take steps to prevent verrucae in the first place. They spread through direct contact, so taking care with hygiene and foot protection makes a big difference. Here are some simple steps to help prevent verrucae:
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Wear flip-flops in communal areas: places like swimming pools, changing rooms, and gym showers are hotspots for the virus.
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Don’t share towels, socks, or shoes: the virus can spread through shared fabrics and footwear.
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Keep your feet clean and dry: wash them daily and dry thoroughly, especially between the toes.
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Cover cuts or scratches: breaks in the skin give the virus an easy way in.
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Boost your skin’s natural defences: moisturised, healthy skin is less likely to pick up infections.
How to Treat Verrucae
If you notice you may have verrucae, don’t panic! They often clear up on their own as the bodies immune system fights them. However, treatment can help speed things up and reduce discomfort. At home options to treat verrucae include:
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Over-the-counter treatments: many chemists sell gels, creams, or medicated plasters that contain salicylic acid to gradually remove the verruca.
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Pumice or emery board: gently filing down the verruca after soaking your feet can help the treatment work better.
Professional Treatment of Verrucae – How a Podiatrist Can Help
It’s worth seeing a podiatrist if a verruca is painful or spreading, or if you have several verrucae. Diabetic people and people with circulation are advised to seek help from a podiatrist.
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SWIFT Microwave Therapy: This UK-developed, CE‑licensed technology delivers short bursts of microwave energy (2–5 seconds) into the skin (reaching 2.6 to 5 mm deep) to heat and destroy the virus-infected tissue, while stimulating your immune system to clear the verruca. It’s quick, precise, and doesn’t need anaesthetic or dressings. Many people return to normal activities immediately; close to 83 % of verrucae resolved in just 2–3 sessions in clinical studies.
- K‑Laser Therapy: A gentle, non-invasive laser that encourages cell regeneration and blood flow to help your body naturally fight the virus. K-Laser is pain-free and with no side effects.
- Faulkner’s Needling: This is a minimally invasive procedure under local anaesthetic. The verruca is pricked multiple times (150–200), bringing viral particles deeper into the skin where your immune system can best respond. One treated verruca can even help others clear. You’ll need follow-up, and dressings are applied post‑procedure.
- Cryotherapy: A tried‑and‑tested method using -90 °C nitrous oxide to freeze the verruca, triggering immune response via cell damage.
Heal from Verrucae Quickly
Taking simple steps to prevent verrucae can save you from a lot of discomfort. Looking after your feet with good hygiene and protective habits is the best way to keep them healthy and verruca-free.
However, if you do find yourself suffering with one or more, there are plenty of safe and effective ways to treat verrucae. Seeking treatment from a podiatrist can ensure receovery is swift and pain-free.
Leading‑Edge Technology in Cambridge – Treat Verrucae Now!
At Cutting Edge Podiatry, we pride ourselves in offering the latest treatment methods to heal your feet. We can advise you on the best treatment approach for your verrucae whether that be Faulkner’s Needling, SWIFT Microwave Therapy, K-Laser Therapy, or Cryotherapy. You can book online or call our friendly team on 01223 633 038. We often have same week apppointments available and we run a cancellation list which you can add yourself to – if we have a cancellation, we will call you!
