What is a Verruca?
A verruca is a small, rough, viral growth that typically appears on the sole of the foot or around the toes. It’s caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) and can often be identified by its rough surface and tiny black dots (clotted blood vessels) inside.
Verrucae are contagious and can spread through skin-to-skin contact or via damp communal surfaces like changing rooms and swimming pool floors. While some verrucae are painless, many become uncomfortable or painful, particularly if they develop on weight-bearing areas of the foot.
Do Verrucae Always Need Treatment?
Not always — but in many cases, yes. At Footsteps Clinic, we begin with a professional assessment to confirm whether a lesion is a verruca and, if so, whether treatment is needed. Some verrucae are harmless and will eventually go away, but others may:
- Become painful when walking or standing
- Spread to other areas of the foot
- Increase in size or number
- Interfere with sport, work, or daily activity
If your verruca is persistent, painful, or affecting your quality of life, we’ll recommend a targeted treatment plan using one of our effective in-clinic options.
Our Verruca Treatment Options
At Footsteps Clinic, we specialise in the treatment of stubborn and painful verrucae. We offer three proven clinical options:
- Swift® Microwave Therapy (our most advanced and popular treatment)
- Verrutop® (a professional topical application)
- Dry Needling (an immune-based treatment for persistent cases)
Swift® Microwave Therapy – The Leading Solution
Swift® is a revolutionary, non-invasive treatment that uses microwave energy to stimulate the body’s immune system to recognise and eliminate the verruca virus. It is fast, clean, and highly effective — particularly for long-standing or resistant verrucae.
How Swift® Works:
- A handheld probe delivers a short burst of microwave energy directly into the verruca.
- The energy creates a rapid heat response, triggering the body to start fighting the virus internally.
- Over time, the immune system clears the infected tissue, allowing healthy skin to return.
What to Expect:
- Each treatment session is quick — just a few minutes.
- Most patients need 3–4 sessions, spaced 3–4 weeks apart.
- There’s no need for dressings, and no downtime — you can walk, shower, and return to normal activity straight away.
- Swift is suitable for most adults and older children. We'll assess suitability during your consultation.
Verrutop® – A Powerful Chemical Option
Verrutop® is a clinic-only topical treatment made from a combination of nitric acid, organic acids, and metal salts. It dries out and breaks down the verruca tissue without the need for freezing, burning, or surgery.
Benefits of Verrutop®:
- Quick and painless application
- Usually requires a course of treatments, spaced 1–2 weeks apart
- Ideal for those who prefer a chemical approach or are unsuitable for Swift
We take the time to explain your condition clearly, so you understand what’s happening and the steps we can take to help.
Dry Needling – For Deep or Persistent Verrucae
Dry Needling is a minor procedure carried out under local anaesthetic. We use a fine needle to puncture the verruca and push viral material deeper into the skin tissue. This triggers a stronger immune response in the area, often clearing not only the treated verruca but also others nearby.
This technique is especially useful for:
- Deep-rooted verrucae
- Single, stubborn lesions
- Adults with a good immune response
Your Verruca Assessment at Footsteps Clinic
At your first appointment, we’ll carry out a detailed assessment, including:
- Identifying whether the lesion is a verruca or another condition (e.g. corn, callus)
- Reviewing how long it has been present, symptoms, and any previous treatment
- Determining the best treatment based on your needs and medical history
You’ll receive clear guidance, expert advice, and a treatment plan tailored to your individual case.
Why Choose Footsteps Clinic?
At Footsteps Clinic, we combine expert podiatric care with advanced technology to deliver effective, evidence-based verruca treatments. Whether your verruca is new, long-standing, painful or simply annoying — we’re here to help you treat it safely and effectively.
We focus on:
- Accurate diagnosis
- Personalised treatment planning
- Safe, clinically proven methods
- Minimising downtime and disruption
You’ll receive clear guidance, expert advice, and a treatment plan tailored to your individual case.
Why Choose Footsteps Clinic?
At Footsteps Clinic, we combine expert podiatric care with advanced technology to deliver effective, evidence-based verruca treatments. Whether your verruca is new, long-standing, painful or simply annoying — we’re here to help you treat it safely and effectively.
We focus on:
- Accurate diagnosis
- Personalised treatment planning
- Safe, clinically proven methods
- Minimising downtime and disruption
You’ll receive clear guidance, expert advice, and a treatment plan tailored to your individual case.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many Swift® treatments will I need?
Most patients need 3–4 sessions. The exact number can vary based on how long the verruca has been present and how your immune system responds.
Is Swift® painful?
You may feel a short, sharp burst of heat (a few seconds), often described like a quick sting. Any discomfort is brief, and no anaesthetic or downtime is required.
Can I still walk or shower after treatment?
Yes — with Swift®, there’s no need for dressings or aftercare restrictions. You can carry on with your day as normal.
Is treatment suitable for children?
In many cases, yes — especially older children. We’ll assess their suitability and comfort with treatment during your consultation.
Will my verruca come back?
Once the immune system clears the virus, the treated verruca should not return. However, it’s still possible to contract HPV again in the future. We’ll provide aftercare advice to help reduce that risk.
Patients Testimonials