How to Prevent Plantar Warts: 4 Simple Ways to Protect Your Feet

Close-up of the bottom of a foot with a small plantar wart on the sole, being examined by hand

From a medical standpoint, plantar warts aren’t exactly a huge issue. However, from a comfort standpoint, they can be far more problematic, especially since they form on weight-bearing areas on the soles of your feet.

These common growths develop in about 10% of the general population, and because they’re contagious, taking the right preventive steps is key.

In this post, our team of podiatry specialists at Neuhaus Foot and Ankle shares four strategies for preventing plantar warts. We’ll also outline how we treat them if they develop despite your best efforts. We help patients throughout Brentwood and the greater Nashville area stay ahead of common foot infections like plantar warts.

Be Careful in Locker Rooms and Around Pools

Plantar warts are caused by a viral infection called human papillomavirus (HPV). While there are more than 100 strains of HPV, only a handful are responsible for warts.

These strains thrive in warm, moist environments like locker rooms, pool decks, and public showers.

One study of swimmers in Greece found that 36.5% had plantar warts, highlighting just how easily the virus spreads in these settings.

If you spend time in these environments, protect your feet by wearing flip-flops or shower shoes whenever you’re not in the water.

Keep Your Feet Clean and Dry

Moisture creates the perfect environment for viruses to thrive.

Any time your feet become wet or sweaty, make sure to dry them thoroughly. Change out damp socks, use clean towels, and allow your shoes to fully air out between uses.

This simple habit goes a long way in reducing your risk.

Prevent Cracked Skin

Although the skin on your feet is thick, it can still become dry and cracked.

When this happens, it creates small openings that allow viruses like HPV to enter your body more easily.

Make foot care part of your daily routine. Wash, dry, and moisturize your feet regularly, especially before bed, to help maintain a strong skin barrier.

Avoid Sharing Foot Care Tools

Items like nail clippers, files, and pumice stones can easily transfer viruses if shared.

Always use your own tools and clean them regularly. Disinfecting them with antimicrobial soap or hot water can help reduce your risk of exposure.

How We Treat Plantar Warts

Even with the best prevention, plantar warts can still develop. The good news is that treatment options are highly effective.

At Neuhaus Foot and Ankle, we offer several advanced treatment options, including:

Injections that target the virus
Cryotherapy using liquid nitrogen to freeze the wart
Prescription-strength topical medications like salicylic acid or cantharone
Laser treatments to cut off the wart’s blood supply
In-office surgical removal

Protect Your Feet From Future Issues

While prevention is always the goal, effective treatment is available if plantar warts develop.

If you have questions about prevention or need help treating a plantar wart, our team is here for you. We serve patients across Brentwood, Nashville, and surrounding Middle Tennessee communities.