At Achilles Foot Clinic, we are always on the lookout for advanced, effective treatments to offer our patients. One of the most exciting developments in verruca treatment is laser therapy. This modern approach provides a powerful alternative to traditional methods. In this blog post, we’ll explore how laser therapy works, its advantages, and how it stacks up against other treatment options.

What is Laser Therapy for Verrucas?

Laser therapy uses concentrated light beams to target and destroy the verruca virus. The laser's precision allows it to focus on the infected tissue while minimizing damage to the surrounding healthy skin. This technique involves a quick and relatively painless procedure performed in our clinic.

How Does Laser Therapy Work?

1. Targeting the Virus: The laser emits a specific wavelength of light that is absorbed by the pigmented cells within the verruca. This light energy is converted into heat, which destroys the infected tissue and the virus itself.

2. Promoting Healing: The laser also stimulates the body’s natural healing process. It encourages the growth of new, healthy skin and supports the regeneration of tissue in the treated area.

3. Precision Treatment: Unlike some traditional treatments, laser therapy allows for precise targeting of the verruca, reducing the risk of damage to surrounding tissues.

Advantages of Laser Therapy for Verrucas

1. Minimally Invasive: Laser therapy is a minimally invasive procedure with no need for incisions. Patients can typically resume normal activities almost immediately after the treatment.

2. Reduced Pain: Many patients report less discomfort during and after the procedure compared to traditional methods like cryotherapy or surgical excision.

3. High Success Rates: Laser therapy has shown high success rates in treating verrucas, particularly those that are resistant to other treatments. Studies indicate that a single session often achieves favourable results, although some cases may require additional treatments.

4. Lower Risk of Scarring: The precision of laser therapy minimises damage to surrounding healthy tissue, reducing the risk of scarring compared to more invasive procedures.

5. Quick Recovery: The recovery time for laser therapy is generally short. Most patients experience only mild discomfort, which usually resolves within a few days.

Comparing Laser Therapy to Traditional Methods

1. Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy, which involves freezing the verruca with liquid nitrogen, can be effective but may cause more discomfort and require multiple sessions. Laser therapy often provides a quicker, more comfortable alternative with fewer sessions needed.

2. Topical Treatments: Topical treatments, such as salicylic acid, can be effective but often take longer to work and may require consistent application over several weeks or months. Laser therapy offers a more immediate solution with quicker results.

3. Surgical Excision: Surgical removal of verrucas involves cutting out the infected tissue and can be more invasive, with a higher risk of scarring and a longer recovery time. Laser therapy is less invasive and has a lower risk of scarring.

What to Expect During and After Treatment

During the procedure, you may feel a slight sensation of heat or a mild sting. Most patients tolerate the procedure well without the need for anaesthesia. After the treatment, you may experience some redness or swelling, but this typically resolves quickly.

Post-Treatment Care: Follow your podiatrist’s instructions for post-treatment care. This may include keeping the area clean and dry, avoiding direct contact with potentially contaminated surfaces, and scheduling follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.

Conclusion

Laser therapy represents a modern, effective approach to treating verrucas. With its minimally invasive nature, reduced discomfort, and high success rates, it offers an appealing alternative to traditional treatments. If you’re struggling with verrucas and are interested in exploring laser therapy, contact Achilles Foot Clinic today. Our expert team is here to provide personalised care and help you achieve clear, healthy skin.

Ready to take the next step? Schedule a consultation with us to learn more about how laser therapy can help you.