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If you’ve noticed a painful bump on the bottom of your foot, especially around the heel or ball of the foot, it might be plantar warts. These growths are common and can appear when you least expect them, especially after walking barefoot in public areas. At Sole Foot and Ankle, one of the most common concerns we hear is: “Can plantar warts spread to others or to other parts of my own foot?” Let’s break it down. Quick Facts What Exactly Is a Plantar Wart? A plantar wart is a small, grainy growth that forms on weight-bearing areas of the foot. Unlike warts on your hands or knees, these grow inward due to the pressure of standing and walking. Common signs include: What Causes These Growths to Appear? Plantar warts come from specific strains of HPV, a virus that thrives in warm, moist places. It often spreads in public areas like: The virus enters the skin through minor cuts, blisters, or softened areas, like those you might get after soaking your feet for a long time. Can They Spread to Others? Yes, but not through casual touch. Unlike cold viruses, plantar wart-causing HPV spreads indirectly. You can contract the virus by: Why Some People Get Plantar Warts and Others Don’t Even if two people are exposed to the virus, only one might develop a wart. That’s because the immune system plays a major role. People more likely to develop plantar warts include: How to Lower the Risk of Spreading Whether you’re trying to protect yourself or others, here are ways to reduce your chances of developing or spreading these warts: What to Do: What Not to Do: Treatment Options That Actually Work Some plantar warts disappear on their own, especially in healthy children, but others stick around and become painful. That’s when treatment helps. Home Remedies (May Work for Minor Cases) Professional Plantar Wart Treatment at Sole Foot and Ankle For stubborn, painful, or recurring warts, we offer: We also assess how your walking pattern (gait) might contribute to pressure buildup, which can encourage warts to linger. When to See a Podiatrist Make an appointment if: Early treatment prevents the condition from worsening or spreading to others. A Note from Sole Foot and Ankle Plantar warts aren’t dangerous, but they can cause real discomfort and frustration—especially if they linger. At Sole Foot and Ankle, we treat these growths with safe, effective methods tailored to your foot type and lifestyle. If you suspect a wart or want expert advice, call our Valparaiso clinic at 219‑464‑9588 or schedule a visit online. We’re here to keep you active and comfortable. Frequently Asked Questions