Plantar warts (Verruca Plantaris) are skin infections caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and cause a hard and often painful thickened lesion on the sole of the foot. The viruses are present everywhere and are spread when they comes in direct contact with the skin where the outer protective layer is broken, either by minor trauma or by moisture. Plantar warts are different in their appearance from the common raised wart commonly seen on the knees and elbows of children, although these too are most common in children due to their less mature immune system.
Plantar warts are not usually a serious health concern and may disappear in a few weeks or last many years. Plantar warts often make running, jumping, and even walking, uncomfortable because they press inwards on the sensitive nerves of the skin. The tenderness can change posture and cause strain elsewhere in the body. A little wart can be a big problem.