Verrucae Treatments

What Are Verrucae?

Verrucae (plantar warts) are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) and appear on the soles of the feet. They can be painful, especially when walking, and are often resistant to over-the-counter treatments. While some verrucae resolve on their own, many persist for years without professional intervention.

Caustics & Acids

Chemical treatments using concentrated acids are applied directly to the verruca to destroy the infected tissue layer by layer. This is a tried-and-tested method that works well for many patients. Treatment typically involves a course of regular appointments over several weeks.

Verruca Needling

Needling is a procedure performed under local anaesthetic where the verruca tissue is punctured repeatedly with a fine needle. This pushes the virus into the deeper tissue layers where the body's immune system can recognise and fight it. Needling is particularly effective for long-standing or multiple verrucae, and often only requires a single treatment.

SWIFT Microwave Therapy

SWIFT is the latest and most effective advancement in verruca treatment, with an 83% success rate — higher than any other available option. It uses precisely controlled microwave energy delivered through a special probe to treat the affected tissue, stimulating a strong immune response.

Key benefits of SWIFT therapy include:

• No needles, no anaesthetic, no dressings
• Treatment takes only seconds per verruca
• Walk normally immediately after treatment
• 83% success rate — the highest of any treatment
• Usually only 3 sessions, spaced 3–5 weeks apart

We were one of the first clinics in the area to offer SWIFT therapy and have seen excellent results across all age groups.

View the full SWIFT Microwave Therapy page — including video and treatment comparison table