Verrucae are one of the most common skin conditions affecting the feet, and yet they remain one of the most misunderstood. For some, they are a minor nuisance. For others, especially when painful or spreading, they can become a source of real distress affecting daily comfort, exercise routines and even the confidence to wear open shoes.
At Dulwich Podiatry, we believe that foot health deserves more than “quick fixes.” Our focus is on evidence-based treatments, advanced technologies and tailored care to ensure you can return to living without discomfort.
What Exactly Are Verrucae?
Verrucae are caused by a strain of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). They may appear as one deep lesion or as multiple shallow ones, often on weight-bearing areas of the foot. While many verrucae in children resolve without intervention, in adults they are often more persistent, sometimes lasting for years.
There are many strains of HPV, and some can be particularly stubborn. That’s why professional care makes all the difference: knowing when to let nature take its course, and when to intervene with the latest clinical treatments.
Advanced Verruca Treatments at Dulwich Podiatry
We offer a range of carefully selected therapies, each chosen for safety, effectiveness and patient experience. Options include:
Verruca Needling: A technique that stimulates a strong immune response by pushing the virus deeper into the skin, alerting the body to its presence.
Cryosurgery (freezing): Rapidly destroys infected tissue, stimulating the immune system to fight the virus.
Traditional acid therapy: Targeted chemical application to break down infected skin layers.
Verrutop®: A newer, topical treatment that acts at a cellular level without damaging surrounding healthy tissue.
Verruca Pen®: Plasma technology designed to treat resistant verrucae with precision.
Low level laser therapy: Harnessing light energy to reduce viral activity and support natural healing.
Your treatment plan is never one-size-fits-all. We discuss the options in detail during your consultation so you can make an informed choice aligned with your health priorities and lifestyle.
Myth Busting: Setting the Record Straight
“It’s just a corn.”
Corns are caused by pressure and friction, not a virus. Verrucae are viral lesions and require very different management.
“Only children get them.”
While common in children, verrucae can affect adults of all ages. In fact, they often prove more persistent in adults due to differences in immune response.
“They’ll disappear with duct tape or banana skin.”
Despite stories online, there is no robust scientific evidence that these home remedies reliably cure verrucae. They may sometimes resolve on their own, but professional treatment offers faster, more predictable results.
“They’re contagious from casual contact.”
The virus spreads in warm, damp environments (like changing rooms or swimming pools). Not everyone exposed will develop a verruca, susceptibility depends on individual immunity and skin integrity.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your verruca is:
- Painful
- Spreading
- Interfering with footwear or activity
- Or simply not resolving on its own
…it’s time to consult a podiatrist.
At Dulwich Podiatry, we take verrucae seriously, not just as a skin condition, but as something that can affect your overall wellbeing. With advanced technology and decades of expertise, we ensure every patient receives care that is both effective and tailored to their needs.
If you are living with a verruca that causes discomfort or frustration, book an appointment with Dulwich Podiatry. We will assess your condition, discuss the full range of treatment options, and help you make an informed decision for clear, comfortable, healthy feet.
