Verruca
Veruccae
What are they and what treatments are available?
Corns and verrucae are often confused, and we see both frequently in our podiatry clinic.
There are many different types of verruca - you may just have one large one or many spread over both feet. Typically they appear cauliflower like with little black dots on them. They are found on feet of all ages most commonly on the soles and toes. The virus thrives in warm damp conditions typically swimming pools and changing rooms.
Corns are found under areas of higher pressure and appear glassy. They tend to be painful when pushed where as verruca are painful when squeezed. Corns are often found when people have callus (hard skin).
Verrucae can be painful and cause embarrassment, at Flo Paul Podiatry we have reviewed the evidence on various forms of treatment and are pleased to offer a range of options. We will provide you with a thorough understanding of the verruca virus (Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)) and will clearly explain the treatment choices so you can make an informed decision.
The treatment options we currently recommend are detailed below:-
Swift Microwave Therapy
Swift Microwave therapy which offers a quick treatment that does not require anesthetic or dressings.
Please visit the Treat Verruca Website for a detailed explanation of this treatment. The recommended treatment protocol is for 3 treatments 4 weeks apart and a review after another 12 weeks (5 months from the initial treatment).
Acid Treatment
Acid treatment for verrucas involves the application of strong acids, such as salicylic acid or monochloroacetic acid, directly to the verruca to chemically destroy the infected skin tissue. These treatments can be applied at home using over the counter products such as Bazuka. Over time the acid causes the verruca to break down.
If you have tried home treatments unsuccessfully then a more targeted approach under a podiatrists guidance may be beneficial. It may require multiple sessions for complete removal. This treatment option is commonly used when over-the-counter treatments have failed or the verruca is particularly stubborn or painful.
Needling
Immune response stimulation using Dry Needling under local anaesthesia.
Verruca can live undetected by the immune system for many years as they create an invisiblity cloak around them. The dry needling procedure introduces the virus deeper into the skin tissue so it can be detected by the immune system and eradicated. Further details will be provided at your verruca consultation.
Occlusion
Occlusion treatment for verrucas involves covering the verruca with a dressing or tape, often in combination with a topical treatment like salicylic acid. The occlusive dressing helps to soften the skin, enhance the effectiveness of the medication, and may inhibit its growth.
This method is typically used over several months, with regular debridement to remove dead skin and monitor progress. Occlusion is a non-invasive and commonly recommended approach, especially for persistent or painful verrucas.
Home Treatments
Practical home treatment maybe the best option for small and non painful verrucas or primary school children. There is of advice on the internet about different home remedies. We will guide you through the choices which includes the use of acids and occlusion. We may also recommend regular removal of the hard skin that forms over the top of the verruca. Guidance will be given as to how the verruca will respond during the treatment and when it has gone. Please book a Verruca consultation appointment for detailed guidance.
Prevention:
Verruca prevention focuses on minimising exposure to the human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes the condition.
- Wearing flip-flops in communal areas like swimming pools and changing rooms.
- Keeping feet clean and dry.
- Avoiding direct contact with existing verrucas —both on oneself and others.
- Do not share towels, socks, or footwear.
- Cover any existing verrucas with waterproof plasters when swimming.
- Maintaining good foot hygiene and skin integrity to help reduce the risk of infection.
