Verrucae

Verrucae are mutations of skin cells caused by the human papillomavirus. Treatment therefore focuses on causing your body’s immune system to respond by attacking the virus.

Following a consultation with your podiatrist, you will be given several treatment options available with Absolute Footcare.

Verrucae Needling

Verrucae Needling is one of the most successful treatments for verrucae. Although more treatments may be necessary, this is often a one-off treatment using local anaesthetic to provide minimal discomfort during the procedure and usually minimal discomfort following the treatment. (See price list).

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is widely used in the treatment of Verrucae, with high rates of success following the course of treatment. Liquid nitrogen is used to freeze the verrucae. This procedure often takes multiple treatments with recommended treatment intervals between 1-3 weeks for optimum results. (See price list).

Acid Therapy

Acid treatments such as salicylic acid is applied to the verruca, which acts to break down and destroy the area of thickened skin that makes up the lesion. The acid softens the skin and leads to a mild inflammation which stimulates the bodies immune system to fight off the virus. Acid treatment usually requires a course of treatment at 1-3 week intervals for optimum results.

Laser Therapy

Class 4 laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment option for verrucas (plantar warts) that uses high-intensity laser beams to target and treat the affected area. The mechanism of action of class 4 laser therapy for treating verrucas involves several potential ways in which the laser energy can help to eliminate the wart:

Direct Destruction

The high-intensity laser beams can target the verruca directly, heating and destroying the vascular supply to the virus-infected tissue. The laser energy can penetrate the skin to reach the deeper layers where the virus resides, effectively targeting and destroying the wart.

Immune Modulation

Class 4 laser therapy is thought to stimulate the body’s immune response in the treated area. By activating immune cells and promoting circulation, the laser energy may help the body’s immune system to recognise and eliminate the virus that causes the verruca.

Pain Reduction

In addition to targeting the verruca itself, class 4 laser therapy can also help reduce pain and inflammation associated with the wart. The laser energy can promote tissue healing, reduce swelling, and alleviate discomfort in the affected area.

Accelerated Healing

Class 4 laser therapy is known to promote tissue repair and regeneration. By stimulating cellular activity and increasing blood flow to the treated area, the laser energy can help speed up the healing process of the skin after the verruca has been treated.

Overall, class 4 laser therapy for verrucas works by targeting the virus-infected tissue, stimulating the immune response, reducing pain and inflammation, and promoting tissue healing. It is a non-invasive and potentially effective treatment option for verrucas, but individual results may vary, and multiple sessions may be needed to achieve the desired outcome.

Benefits of Laser Treatments for Verrucas

• Non-Invasive: No need for surgical procedures or incisions.
• Minimal Discomfort: Patients often experience only mild warmth during the treatment.
• Precision Targeting: The laser precisely targets the verruca, minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
• Reduced Pain: Many patients report immediate pain relief following treatment.
• Low Risk of Infection: Non-invasive nature reduces the risk of infections compared to traditional surgical methods.
• Faster Healing: Promotes quicker healing of the affected area.
• Minimal Downtime: Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately after treatment.
• Safe for All Ages: Suitable for both children and adults.

What to Expect During Treatment

Each laser therapy session for verrucas typically lasts 15 minutes. During the session, the laser device is placed directly over the verruca. Patients may notice immediate pain relief. A typical treatment plan consists of multiple sessions over a few weeks, with many patients seeing significant improvement after just a few treatments.