If you’ve ever had a stubborn bump on the sole of your foot that just won’t go away, chances are it was a verruca (also known as a plantar wart). These common, often frustrating foot problems are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) – and they’re surprisingly easy to catch.
So, how do verrucae spread, who’s most at risk, and what are your treatment options if one appears on your foot? Let’s break it down.
How Do Verrucae Spread?
Verrucae love warm, moist environments, which is why they’re commonly picked up in places like:
- Swimming pools
- Communal showers
- Changing rooms
- Gyms
The virus enters the skin through tiny cuts, abrasions, or even dry, cracked skin. Once inside, it can take hold and form a verruca – a small, rough growth often found on the weight-bearing areas of the foot.
Because HPV is highly contagious, it can also spread via:
- Direct contact with a verruca
- Surfaces contaminated with the virus
- Sharing shoes, socks, or towels
- Even within the same person, the virus can travel from one part of the foot to another if left untreated.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Anyone can develop a verruca, but you’re more at risk if you:
- Are a child or teenager
- Have a weakened immune system
- Spend a lot of time barefoot in communal areas
- Are active in sports or swimming
The earlier you catch and treat a verruca, the easier it is to stop it from spreading or becoming more painful.
Are Verrucae Contagious?
Yes – verrucae are contagious. They can pass easily from person to person or from one area of your foot to another.
That’s why we always recommend early treatment – not just to get rid of the verruca, but also to reduce the chance of spreading it to others or to other parts of your body.
Verruca Treatments at Our Clinics in Wombwell & Brinsworth
At our friendly and professional clinics in Wombwell (Barnsley) and Brinsworth (Rotherham), we offer a range of safe, effective verruca treatments.
During your initial consultation, we’ll assess the verruca (or verrucae), take photos to monitor progress, and discuss the best treatment for your individual case. We’ll also talk you through the benefits, risks, and expected outcomes so you can make an informed choice.
Here’s a look at the main treatment options we provide:
Swift Microwave Therapy
- Non-invasive and highly effective
- Uses microwave energy to target infected tissue
- No need for plasters or downtime
- Ideal for busy, active individuals
- Around 84% success rate
- £130 per session (usually 3-4 sessions needed, spaced 4–6 weeks apart)
- Review 12 weeks after the final session
Verrutop
- Topical solution that chemically dries out the verruca
- Minimal discomfort
- Requires use of surgical spirit at home between treatments
- £60 per session (typically 6 sessions, every 2 weeks)
Silver Nitrate
- A simple, cost-effective chemical treatment
- Can be applied at home (after professional guidance)
- Very mild discomfort
- Lower success rate (~30%)
- £38 per session, following an initial £50 consultation
What About Needling?
While needling is not currently offered at our clinics, we’re happy to refer you to trusted clinics that provide it. Here’s what to know:
- Stimulates your immune system to fight off the virus
- Performed under local anaesthetic
- Often only 1 session needed (sometimes up to 3)
- Approx. 70% success rate
- Usually around £300 per session
Don’t Wait – Get It Checked Early
Verrucae don’t always go away on their own – in fact, they often get worse or spread if left untreated. If you’ve tried over-the-counter remedies without success or you’re just unsure what’s going on, we’re here to help.
Book an appointment at either our Wombwell or Brinsworth foot clinic and take the first step towards clearer, healthier feet.
Let us help you walk confidently again – verruca-free.