Plantar Warts in Children
Overview
Plantar warts are small, rough skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They commonly appear on the bottom of the feet and are especially frequent in school-aged children. Warts thrive in warm, moist environments such as swimming pools, change rooms, and communal showers.
While plantar warts are harmless, they can become painful when located in weight-bearing areas and may spread if not managed early.
Common Signs & Symptoms
- A small, rough bump on the sole of the foot
- Pain when walking or running, especially when squeezed
- Black pinpoint dots (tiny blood vessels) inside the wart
- A callused area that appears flat due to pressure
- Discomfort when standing barefoot
- Clusters of warts (mosaic warts) in some cases
How Children Get Plantar Warts
HPV enters the skin through tiny breaks or cuts. Children are more susceptible because their immune systems are still developing. Common sources of exposure include:
- Public swimming pools
- School change rooms
- Shared showers
- Walking barefoot on communal surfaces
When to Seek a Podiatry Review
Book an assessment if your child has:
- Pain when walking or playing sport
- A wart that is growing or spreading
- Multiple warts forming a cluster
- Difficulty standing barefoot
- Uncertainty about whether the lesion is a wart or a callus
- A wart lasting longer than 8–12 weeks despite home treatment
What We Assess
- Size, depth and location of the wart
- Single vs clustered (mosaic) warts
- Pain levels during walking
- Skin integrity around the wart
- Footwear and activity levels
Treatment Options
Podiatry treatment is safe, effective and tailored to your child’s comfort. Options include:
- Debridement (removal of hard skin over the wart)
- Topical treatments to stimulate the immune response
- Medical-grade salicylic acid therapy
- Occlusive therapy to reduce irritation
- Footwear advice to reduce pressure on painful areas
- Activity modifications if the wart is painful
Prevention Tips
- Wear thongs in change rooms and pool areas
- Avoid sharing towels or socks
- Keep feet clean and dry
- Use breathable footwear
- Check children’s feet regularly for early signs