You thought you had a corn or callus on the bottom of your foot. However, this irritating bump may really be a wart. The podiatrists, Drs. 
Michael Frank, Marc Goldberg, and Adam Lowy, at Family Foot and Ankle Associates of Maryland in Olney, can help you if you are dealing with warts. Easily caught and easily treated, warts can be painful, unsightly and a big nuisance if left untreated.
What exactly is a wart
Typically, it's a small raised bump of hardened skin that forms at the site of an abrasion or cut on the feet, hands or face. Some warts have black or brown dots (seed warts), and some grow in tightly-knit groups (mosaic warts).
Caused by HPV, the Human Papillomavirus, warts are very contagious, says the American Academy of Dermatology. They spread by skin to skin contact and quickly form singly or in multiples. If you have one or more on your foot, they are called plantar warts and usually appear on the ball of the foot or heel, causing a fair amount of discomfort.
What you can do
First of all, don't pick at your warts. You'll only irritate them or spread them to others in your household. Also, for diabetics, picking at any skin lesion can lead to infection.
Second, keep your feet clean and dry, and try an over the counter remedy. Most of these contain salicylic acid, which dries the wart and allows it to slough off. Be sure to follow the package directions carefully.
Finally, you can see your podiatrist in Olney if you suspect you have warts. Your foot doctor will examine the area in question and recommend over the counter medications or prescription ointments or creams as needed. If warts are large or numerous, he may advise laser cautery which can be provided as an in-office treatment at Family Foot and Ankle Associates of Maryland.
A word of caution
To avoid getting warts, make sure you keep your feet clean. Also, wear shower sandals poolside or in the locker room to avoid contacting the virus which causes warts.
Don't wait
If your wart is really bothering you, or if you have diabetes, please contact one of the convenient locations of Family Foot and Ankle Associates of Maryland. One of the highly skilled podiatrists will get your feet feeling fit again fast. Call for an appointment. In Olney, phone (301) 924-5044. In Clinton, call (301) 868-7670. For Silver Spring, phone (301) 439-0300, and in Kensington, phone (301) 942-8110.