Vanquish Your Verruca with Needling!
Verrucae are a type of wart that forms on the sole of the foot, that can cause pain, swelling and irritation to the area. Caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) they are easily spread by skin to skin contact and can even be contracted by simply walking across the same floor as someone who has a verruca. The virus thrives in damp and warm conditions, flourishing in places such as communal gym showers or swimming pools, so they effect many people. As the virus lives in the skin of the foot, it can take many years for a verruca to vanish, but with verruca needling, the body’s natural defences can be sped up.
What Is Verruca Needling?
Undergoing a verruca needling treatment is quick and has very low pain, as the procedure is done under local anaesthetic. The chiropodist performing the needling will first lay you down on the bed, in a way that the verruca is exposed, usually on your back. The area is then numbed by injecting anaesthetic into the foot. Once this numbing has taken effect, the chiropodist will begin to puncture the area with a needle repeatedly, until the he feels very little resistance by the skin in this area.
How Does It Work?
Verruca needling works by stimulating the body’s natural response to infection. As the wound is created, the virus is pushed into deeper layers of the skin, which encourages an immune response in the form of bleeding to the area. The white blood cells which are transported to the puncturing, carry with them bacteria-fighting proteins which act by breaking down the virus as well as healing the area. After a verruca needling session, it is advisable to wear a dressing for a few days, to avoid any contaminants entering the wound. Normally one session of needling is all you will need to eliminate the verruca, although occasionally you may need a second treatment. If you are suffering from a lingering verruca, call our friendly team of chiropodists today on 0191 284 9111 or book an appointment online.