Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, which enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions. These warts develop on the bottom of the foot, often in weight-bearing areas, such as the heel or ball of the foot. Unlike warts on other parts of the body, plantar warts grow inward due to pressure from walking and standing. This inward growth can make them painful and difficult to ignore. Understanding the cause and early signs of plantar warts is essential for preventing spread and seeking timely treatment.

Symptoms of plantar warts vary depending on their size and location. Many people notice a rough, grainy lesion on the sole of the foot. Some contain small black dots that are clotted blood vessels. Pain may feel like stepping on a small stone, especially while walking or applying pressure. The skin surrounding the wart can become thickened or callus-like. Some warts remain small and isolated, while others may multiply and spread across the foot, if left untreated.

There are two primary types of plantar warts: solitary and mosaic. A solitary wart appears as a single, well-defined lesion that may grow deeper into the skin over time. It often becomes more painful as it enlarges. Mosaic warts, on the other hand, develop as clusters of smaller warts grouped together in a patch. These are usually more superficial but can cover a larger area, making them more difficult to treat. Both types are caused by the same virus but differ in appearance and growth pattern, which can influence treatment decisions.

Risk factors for plantar warts include walking barefoot in public swimming pool areas, locker rooms, and communal showers. This is because the virus thrives in warm, moist environments. Individuals with a weakened immune system are more susceptible to infection and may experience more persistent or widespread warts. Minor skin injuries also increase the risk by providing entry points for the virus. Maintaining proper foot hygiene and wearing protective footwear can reduce exposure. If you have symptoms of a plantar wart, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain develops when the structures supporting the heel become irritated or overworked. Activities such as walking, jumping, and running place constant pressure on the feet, which can lead to inflammation or small tissue injuries over time. It often appears as a sharp or dull ache in the bottom or back of the heel, especially during the first steps in the morning or after rest. Repetitive stress, tight calf muscles, and lack of proper support can all contribute to its development. While stretching may help maintain flexibility in the surrounding muscles, ongoing pain may signal a deeper issue. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause of heel pain, check foot alignment, and recommend targeted treatment options to improve comfort and movement. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is and offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus is a common condition that affects the nail and surrounding skin when fungal organisms begin to grow in warm, moist environments. It often starts as a small discoloration under the nail and gradually spreads, causing the nail to become thickened, brittle, and discolored. Some people may notice a yellow or white color, along with a foul odor, in more advanced cases. Risk factors include wearing tight shoes, excessive sweating, walking barefoot in public areas, and having reduced circulation or immune response. The condition may develop slowly and can become difficult to manage if left untreated. Over time, it may lead to discomfort and changes in how the nail grows. A podiatrist can evaluate the infection, confirm the diagnosis, and recommend targeted treatments to restore nail health. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which may include prescribed medication.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle pain can develop from several conditions that affect the bones, ligaments, and tendons surrounding the joint. An Achilles tendon injury often causes pain at the back of the ankle, especially during movement or after activity. Fractures involve a break in one of the ankle bones and may appear with severe pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. Sprains occur when ligaments are stretched or torn, while strains affect muscles or tendons, both leading to discomfort and instability. Risk factors include sports activity, uneven surfaces, wearing poor footwear, and sudden changes in movement. Symptoms may vary, but often include swelling, bruising, and limited motion. A podiatrist can determine the exact cause through examination and imaging, then guide treatment to restore strength and function. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat the problem.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.