Treating a Painful Plantar Wart: A Case Study from Village Dermatology in Katy & Houston, Texas
Plantar warts are a common but often stubborn skin condition that can significantly impact daily activities—especially for active individuals. At Village Dermatology in Katy and Houston, Texas, we frequently treat plantar warts that have not responded to over-the-counter therapies.
This case highlights a 38-year-old male who presented with a persistent and painful plantar wart on the left foot, requiring in-office procedural treatment for relief.
Patient Overview
Chief Complaint
Wart on the left plantar surface of the foot
Present for approximately 2–3 months
Moderate severity
Causing discomfort during workouts
Previous Treatments
Over-the-counter salicylic acid
OTC cryotherapy
Partial improvement only; lesion persisted
Clinical Examination
A focused foot exam revealed:
A plantar wart on the left lateral plantar midfoot
Hyperkeratotic lesion consistent with verruca plantaris
No signs of secondary infection
Patient otherwise healthy, well-nourished, and in no distress
Diagnosis: Plantar Wart (Verruca Plantaris)
Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and occur on the soles of the feet. Due to the thick skin in this area and constant pressure from walking, plantar warts are among the most treatment-resistant warts.
They can:
Be painful
Spread with direct contact
Persist for months to years without proper treatment
Treatment Plan
In-Office Procedure: Paring + Liquid Nitrogen (Cryotherapy)
During the visit:
The lesion was pared with a curette to remove thickened skin
Liquid nitrogen (LN2) was applied to the wart
One lesion treated during this session
Patient Consent & Education
The patient was counseled and consented regarding potential risks, including:
Blistering
Crusting or scabbing
Pigment changes
Scarring
Recurrence or incomplete removal
Infection
The patient tolerated the procedure well.
Counseling & Expectations
The patient was advised:
Plantar warts often require 3–4 liquid nitrogen treatments for full resolution
Treatments are typically spaced every 3–4 weeks
Discomfort after treatment is common but temporary
At-Home Care
Continue topical salicylic acid between visits
Avoid picking or shaving the lesion
Keep feet clean and dry
Wear protective footwear in communal areas (gyms, locker rooms, pools)
When to Contact the Office
If the wart spreads
If it recurs after treatment
If pain or signs of infection develop
Follow-Up Plan
Return in 1 month for re-evaluation and possible repeat cryotherapy
Expert Wart Treatment in Katy & Houston, Texas
Plantar warts can be frustrating, painful, and difficult to treat without professional care. At Village Dermatology, we offer a wide range of evidence-based treatments including:
Cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen)
Cantharidin
Salicylic acid therapy
Candidal antigen injections
Laser therapy
Surgical options when necessary
Our dermatology team customizes treatment based on lesion location, size, symptoms, and patient lifestyle.
