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Verrucae: Understanding and Treatment Options



What Are Verrucae?

  • Verrucae (plantar warts) are common viral skin growths that appear on the feet.
  • They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
  • Because the skin on the sole is thick, pressure from walking can push them inward, which may make them tender or uncomfortable.

Do I Need Treatment?

Many verrucae disappear naturally within two years.

  • If your verruca is not painful or bothersome, treatment may not be necessary.
  • If it is painful, spreading, persistent, or you would prefer it removed, we offer several effective options.

Treatment at A&A Podiatrists

We provide safe, evidence-based treatments tailored to your individual needs. Most treatments require more than one appointment, and no single option works for everyone.

  • Swift Microwave Therapy (our primary treatment): Swift uses low-dose microwave energy to stimulate your immune system to clear the virus. Each area (around 5mm) receives five short pulses lasting two seconds. Treatment takes less than 35 seconds per site. It is briefly uncomfortable during delivery but requires no dressings, no aftercare, and no restrictions afterwards. A mild soreness for a day afterwards but mild enough that it doesn’t interfere with waking. Ideal for busy lifestyles, swimmers, and active patients. Usually three appointments, one month apart.
  • More about Swift
  • Salicylic Acid (60% strength): A traditional and well-tolerated treatment, particularly suitable for children. Applied to the skin and left in place for 2–4 days (so needs to be kept dry). Typically requires 4–6 treatments.
  • Verrutop: A painless drying treatment using nitrizinc complex. Usually 6 sessions. Minimal aftercare or dressings. Suitable for shallow verrucae.
  • Cryofreeze (nitrous oxide): Freezing treatment best suited to isolated verrucae on non-weight-bearing areas. Usually three sessions. Good for warts on the hand.
  • Dry Needling: Performed under local anaesthetic to stimulate immune response. Typically two sessions spaced several months apart.
  • Other Acids: Used selectively where clinically appropriate.
  • Watchful Waiting: In some cases, monitoring is the most sensible approach.

Please note: No verruca treatment is 100% guaranteed. During your consultation we will consider your lifestyle, health, verruca type and preferences before agreeing on a plan.

Costs

  • Initial Consultation: £80 (payment required at booking)
  • Follow-Up Appointments: from £40 (10 minutes) or £70 (30 minutes)
  • Swift: £150 per treatment (three required, monthly)
  • Cryofreeze therapy : £80
  • Verrutop ampule: £15
  • All follow-up appointments are chargeable, even if treatment is not carried out. The assessment may include dermascope (high magnification) analysis of the area.

We’re Here to Help

  • Thorough assessment
  • Clear explanation of options
  • Personalised treatment plan
  • Transparent pricing

We are a private podiatry clinic. Consultation fees apply whether or not treatment is undertaken.