What is a verruca?
A verruca is a wart on the sole of the foot, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Because you walk on it, it is pushed inwards and often looks flat, with a hard surface and tiny black dots — small blood vessels — in the centre.
Verrucae spread through direct contact and from damp surfaces such as swimming pools and changing rooms. They are particularly common in children and teenagers.
Signs of a verruca
- A rough, hard patch on the sole, often with black dots
- Pain when you squeeze it from side to side, or when you walk on it
- Small clusters of verrucae close together (mosaic verrucae)
Verrucae can look very like a corn. A podiatrist can tell the difference — and the two are treated very differently.
How cryotherapy works
Cryotherapy uses extreme cold to freeze the verruca tissue. Over the following days the treated skin breaks down, and the body's immune system is prompted to clear the virus. Any overlying hard skin is reduced first so the cold can reach the verruca.
Verrucae vary in how quickly they respond, so treatment often needs more than one session, a few weeks apart. Cryotherapy isn't suitable for everyone — for example people with poor circulation or some medical conditions — so Ian will check it is right for you before treatment begins.
Stopping verrucae spreading
- Don't pick, scratch or cut the verruca
- Cover it with a waterproof plaster when swimming
- Wear flip-flops in communal showers and changing rooms
- Don't share towels, socks or shoes
Common questions
Is cryotherapy for verrucae painful?
Most people feel a cold, stinging sensation during freezing, and the area may be tender for a day or two afterwards. Children and adults usually tolerate it well.
How many cryotherapy sessions will I need?
It varies from person to person and depends on the size and number of verrucae. Many need more than one session, spaced a few weeks apart.
Should I leave a verruca alone?
Many verrucae eventually clear on their own, but this can take months or years. Treatment is worth considering if a verruca is painful, spreading, or not going away.