A plantar wart is a wart on the bottom of your foot that is caused by a viral infection. Plantar warts can be very stubborn and resistant to treatment, depending on their size and the treatment methods you use. So how do you tell when a plantar wart is removed? Look for several signs.
Wash you hands with soap and water before and after examining your foot. The human papillomavirus (HPV) that causes plantar warts is easily spread by touching the wart and then touching other parts of your skin.
Examine the plantar-wart area. Do you see any black dots? Small black dots, which are actually clotted blood vessels, often appear in a plantar wart. If you don’t see any black dots, the plantar wart may be gone.
Look at the normal lines and ridges in the skin of your feet. Are they smooth and uninterrupted? If so, it is possible the plantar wart is removed. If you instead see a bump or circle interrupting the pattern of the lines, the plantar wart may still be there.
Gently press on the plantar-wart area. Do you feel any pain or tenderness? If not, the plantar wart may be gone. Also, with successful treatment, you should feel no pain or tenderness when walking.
Tip
If you are unsure whether your wart is removed, see your doctor. Warts can be persistent and may need medical treatment for successful removal.
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Sarah Jae has been writing and editing Web content and consumer health content since 2000. Based in Minnesota, Jae has worked for Mayo Clinic and other local and regional clients. She holds an English and writing degree from University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.
