Plantar Skin and Nail Conditions Management

The skin and nails of the feet can be affected by a wide range of conditions. These may cause discomfort, irritation or changes in appearance and can sometimes be difficult to identify without a professional assessment. Common concerns include corns, calluses, cracked heels, dry skin, fungal infections, blisters, plantar warts and thickened, damaged or discoloured toenails.

A podiatrist can examine the affected area, consider your symptoms and medical history, and help determine the likely cause. Treatment is tailored to the individual condition and may include careful removal of hard or damaged skin, pressure relief, professional nail care, reducing the thickness of troublesome nails, advice on suitable skin and nail products, and footwear guidance. Ingrown, fungal or repeatedly damaged nails can also be assessed, with appropriate treatment or referral recommended where necessary.

Plantar warts, also known as verrucae, are viral skin lesions that usually develop on the sole of the foot. They may appear as small, rough or flattened areas of skin and can become painful when located on a weight-bearing area. Although some verrucae resolve naturally, treatment may be considered when they are painful, persistent, spreading or affecting normal activities.

A range of treatments may be discussed depending on the location, size and duration of the verruca. Cryotherapy is available and involves carefully freezing the affected tissue, usually using liquid nitrogen. More than one treatment session may sometimes be needed. Your podiatrist will explain the procedure, its suitability and what to expect afterwards.

If you have noticed a persistent skin lesion, a painful verruca, changes to your toenails or another concern affecting your feet, please get in touch to arrange an assessment. Professional advice can provide reassurance, help identify the problem and guide you towards the most appropriate management.