Wart Protocol

This protocol is for at-home management of plantar warts (verruca) when approved by your podiatrist. Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can be resistant to treatment. The following steps can help reduce, control, or eliminate the wart over time.

Important: Do not begin treatment without a formal diagnosis from Dr. Cruz or your podiatrist. This treatment is not appropriate for patients with diabetes, poor circulation, or immune compromise without close supervision.
 

• Gently wash the foot and wart area with warm water and mild soap.
   
• Dry thoroughly using a clean towel.
   

• Use a disposable emery board or pumice stone.
   
• Gently file the wart to remove thickened skin. Stop if there’s any discomfort or bleeding.
   
• Do not reuse tools for other areas of the body.
   

• Use an OTC wart treatment with salicylic acid 17%–40% (pads, liquids, or gels).
   
• Apply carefully only on the wart, avoiding surrounding skin.
   
• Let it dry completely before covering.
   

🔗 Salicylic Acid Wart Remover – Amazon
 

• Use a clean adhesive bandage or duct tape to keep the medication in place and limit oxygen exposure (warts hate low oxygen).
   
• Change dressing daily.
   

• This treatment must be done daily for several weeks.
   
• Improvement is usually visible by week 2–3, but full resolution may take 8–12 weeks or longer.
   

• ❌ Do not cut the wart out yourself
   
• ❌ Do not share tools, socks, or towels
   
• ❌ Do not treat warts if you have diabetes or neuropathy without medical guidance
   
• ❌ Do not treat areas with open wounds or infection
   

• Wash your hands after every treatment
   
• Do not walk barefoot in public showers, gyms, or pool decks
   
• Disinfect any surfaces your feet come in contact with (especially if barefoot)
   

• No improvement after 6–8 weeks
   
• Worsening pain, redness, or swelling
   
• Spreading lesions
   
• Uncertainty about diagnosis or treatment
   

We're here for you! Call our office for follow-up care, in-office treatment options (including cantharidin, cryotherapy, or laser), or to confirm that your wart is suitable for home care.

📞 Gentle Foot Care Clinic – (813) 502-5904
🌐 www.gentlefootdoctor.com