Verrucas are a common and often stubborn foot condition that can affect people of all ages. While they’re usually harmless, they can be painful, persistent, and frustrating to treat without the right approach. At South Dublin Podiatry, we offer a range of effective, evidence based treatments tailored to both children and adults.
What is a Verruca?
A verruca is a type of wart that develops on the sole of the foot. It’s caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions. Because they occur on weight-bearing areas, verrucas are often pushed inward, making them feel tender especially when walking or standing.
They may appear as:
- Small, rough lesions on the sole
- Areas of thickened skin with tiny black dots
- Pain when squeezed from the sides
Verrucas can spread through direct contact or from warm, moist environments like swimming pools and communal changing areas.
Do Verrucas Need Treatment?
In some cases, verrucas can resolve on their own. However, this can take months, or even years, and they may become painful or spread in the meantime. Many patients choose treatment to speed up resolution, reduce discomfort, and prevent further spread.
At South Dublin Podiatry, we assess each patient individually and recommend the most suitable treatment based on age, activity level, and the severity of the verruca.
Verruca Treatments We Offer
Verrutop (Ideal for Children)
For our younger patients, we use Verrutop which is a safe, quick, and effective topical treatment. It works by drying out the verruca tissue and triggering the body’s natural healing response.
Why it’s great for children:
- Fast application
- Minimal discomfort
- No need for daily treatment at home
- Typically well tolerated
Salicylic Acid Treatment
Salicylic acid is a traditional and proven treatment that gradually breaks down the thickened skin of the verruca.
Key benefits:
- Non-invasive
- Suitable for many types of verrucas
- Can be used alongside regular clinic care
This treatment usually requires consistent application over time, and we guide you through the process to maximise effectiveness.
Swift Microwave Therapy
Swift is an advanced treatment that uses microwave energy to stimulate the body’s immune system to fight the verruca virus.
Why patients choose Swift:
- Quick treatment sessions
- No need for dressings or downtime
- Targets the root cause by activating immune response
- Highly effective, even for stubborn verrucas
This is a popular option for adults looking for a modern, low maintenance solution.
Verruca Needling
For persistent or resistant verrucas, verruca needling can be an excellent option. This procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic and involves puncturing the verruca to trigger a strong immune response.
Benefits include:
- Often effective for long-standing verrucas
- Can treat multiple verrucas at once
- Encourages the body to recognise and clear the virus
Which Treatment is Right for You?
There’s no one size fits all solution when it comes to verrucas. The best treatment depends on factors such as:
- Age
- Pain level
- Duration of the verruca
- Previous treatments tried
At South Dublin Podiatry, we take the time to assess your condition and explain your options clearly, so you can make an informed decision about your care.
If you’re struggling with a verruca or unsure about the best course of action, we’re here to help. Early treatment can prevent spread and reduce discomfort, so don’t hesitate to seek professional advice.