What should you know about planters warts on feet?

These warts occur on the sole or underside of a toe, where walking pressure can make them grow inward. The surface may be grainy, the normal skin lines may stop across it, and small dark points can appear. A callus, corn or other lesion can look alike, so visual inspection alone is not always enough. Warts may occur singly or in clusters and can spread through contact with affected skin or contaminated items.

Avoid picking, biting or sharing socks, towels and foot-care tools. Keep the area covered when it is rubbing, and use footwear that reduces pressure. Depending on the lesion and your health, a clinician may discuss [Imiquimod Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/imiquimod-therapy/), [Cryotherapy (Lesion Removal)](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/cryotherapy-lesion-removal/), [Electrosurgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/electrosurgery/) or other [Wart Removal](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/wart-removal/). Do not use destructive home treatment on numb skin or poor circulation without medical advice.

Have a clinician assess a lesion that bleeds, changes, becomes very painful or fails to improve. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, warmth, drainage, fever or a wound. Earlier review matters if you have diabetes, reduced sensation, circulation problems or a weakened immune system.

Could this be a wart rather than a callus? Which treatment is safest for my feet? How can I limit spread at home? What should the treated skin look like as it heals, and when should I return?