Podiatrists are trained medical professionals who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of foot and ankle conditions. One common condition that podiatrists encounter is warts.

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Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which infects the skin cells on the feet. They can appear as small, raised bumps or clusters of bumps, and can be painful or uncomfortable to walk on.

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Here are some of the ways that podiatrists deal with warts:

1. Examination and Diagnosis: The first step in treating warts is to examine the affected area and confirm the diagnosis. Podiatrists may use a magnifying glass or a dermatoscope to get a closer look at the warts.

2. Topical Treatments: Podiatrists may prescribe topical treatments such as salicylic acid, which can help to break down the wart tissue and stimulate the immune system to fight the virus. 

3. Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen. This freezes the tissue and causes the wart to fall off. Podiatrists may also use electrosurgery or laser surgery to remove warts.

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Another treatment that podiatrists may use to treat warts on the feet is electrocautery.

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Electrocautery involves using a small, heated probe to burn the wart tissue. This method effectively destroys the wart tissue and can stimulate the immune system to fight the virus. The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia to minimize discomfort.

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After electrocautery, the patient will typically be advised to keep the area clean and dry and to avoid putting pressure on the affected foot. The podiatrist may also prescribe topical treatments or recommend over-the-counter pain medication to manage any discomfort during the healing process.

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As with any wart treatment, electrocautery may require multiple sessions to fully remove the wart. Podiatrists will monitor the progress of treatment and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that the wart is completely removed.

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It is important to note that electrocautery is not appropriate for all patients, particularly those with certain medical conditions or a history of adverse reactions to anaesthesia. Your podiatrist will evaluate your individual case and recommend the best course of treatment for you.

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Monitoring and Follow-up: Podiatrists will monitor the progress of treatment and make any necessary adjustments. In some cases, warts may require multiple treatments or a combination of treatments to be fully resolved. It is important to follow up with the podiatrist regularly to ensure that the warts do not return.

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Ts and Cs apply.