Verrucae (also known as plantar warts) can be painful, persistent, and frustrating to treat. Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), they often develop on weight-bearing areas of the feet, making everyday activities uncomfortable. While many verrucae resolve naturally over time, some prove resistant to over-the-counter and in-clinic treatments.
One treatment option we offer at South Dublin Podiatry is Verruca Needling, a procedure designed to help your body do what it naturally does best: fight infection.
What Is Verruca Needling?
Verruca Needling is a procedure which involves puncturing the verruca with a fine sterile needle
to stimulate the bodyâs immune system to recognise and fight the virus. Needling works by
encouraging a natural immune response rather than directly destroying the verruca. Like all
verruca treatments, it cannot guarantee complete removal, but studies show success
rates of around 60â70% after 1â2 sessions. This means that 3â4 out of 10 patients may not
respond to the treatment.
How Does It Work?
Verrucae are caused by strains of the Human papillomavirus infection, which can sometimes evade the immune system, particularly when located in the thicker skin on the soles of the feet.
Needling works by:
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Delivering the viral particles deeper into the skin
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Triggering a localised immune response
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Encouraging the body to recognise and attack the virus
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Potentially clearing not just the treated verruca, but others on the same foot
Unlike treatments such as acids, which aim to destroy the wart tissue itself, needling focuses on stimulating your immune system to clear the infection more effectively.
What Happens During the Procedure?
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The foot is first numbed with a local anaesthetic to ensure comfort.
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The verruca is punctured multiple times using a fine sterile needle.
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A dressing is applied after the procedure.
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Patients can usually return to normal activities within a few days, although some soreness is expected.
Because the area is anaesthetised, the procedure itself is generally well tolerated.
Who Is Verruca Needling Suitable For?
Verruca needling is often recommended for:
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Persistent verrucae that have not responded to other treatments
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Painful verrucae on weight-bearing areas
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Mosaic verrucae (clusters)
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Adults and older teenagers
It may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain medical conditions affecting healing or immunity. A full assessment is always carried out before proceeding.
What Are the Benefits?
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Targets the underlying viral cause
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Can clear multiple verrucae following treatment of one lesion
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Typically requires only 1â2 sessions
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Avoids prolonged daily application of topical treatments
Are There Any Risks?
As with any minor surgical procedure, there are small risks including:
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Post-procedure pain or discomfort
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Infection (rare)
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Delayed healing
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Treatment failure
While published success rates are encouraging, itâs important to understand that no verruca treatment offers a 100% guarantee.
Is It Right for You?
Verrucae can be stubborn, but they donât have to be permanent. If youâve tried other treatments without success, verruca needling may offer an effective alternative by helping your immune system recognise and clear the virus naturally.
If you would like to discuss whether verruca needling is suitable for you, please contact our clinic to arrange an assessment. Our podiatrists will be happy to guide you through your options and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.