Verrucae

Verrucae are small, rough lumps or growths on your skin. Many people get verrucae at some point in their lives although they are most common in children and young adults. Find out what causes verrucae and how they can be successfully treated in our guide.

What are Verrucae?

A verrucae is a type of wart on the bottom of your feet that sometimes appears raised up, rough and encircled by hard skin. They are commonly described as a ‘cauliflower’ lesion. Verrucae can have a black dot in the centre – these are tiny blood vessels that have been caught within the wart and can bleed if filed down.

Causes of Verrucae

Verrucae and warts are caused by a type of virus, known as the human papilloma virus.

Verrucae are spread through skin to skin contact or indirect via contact with contaminated surfaces such as showers, swimming pools or changing rooms.

Treatment for Verrucae

To prevent verrucae, always wear socks, sandals or flip flops in communal areas if you can. To treat a verruca, there are over the counter applications of wart treatment products you can purchase. Please read the instructions very carefully before using these products.

Over the counter treatments are NOT suitable for diabetics, people with poor circulation or immune-compromised as they could cause non-healing wounds. Seek professional advice.

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Michelle Gibson
MSc, BSc, PGCE, MRCoP, Podiatrist
Michelle has over 30 years of experience in the NHS, private practice, and the commercial sector and is driven by her profound passion for podiatry and the wellbeing of our customers.


Frequently Asked Questions

Do verrucas go away on their own?

Verrucae can go away on their own, although this can sometimes take months or even years. It is advised to seek treatment if they are sore or there is risk of transmitting the verruca to someone else.

Can you get a verruca at any age?

You can get a verruca at any age, although they are more common in children. They can appear at any time, and can persist for many years.

What happens if a verruca is left untreated?

If left untreated verruca can go on their own, but they can also get bigger or spread. There is also a risk of transmission to other people. If in any doubt about whether to treat a verruca, visit a HCPC registered Podiatrist who will diagnose the condition accurately and advise you on treatment.