What causes plantar warts? what's the best way to treat them?

Viral infection: Many ways, including topical acid, pulse dye laser, freezing, burning, other topical meds i.E aldara (imiquimod)... The main thing. Be patient, they can take time to heal. Also confirm it is a wart and if it doesn't go away in a reasonable time, consider a biopsy.

Wart?: The correct diagnosis is the key. Warts are caused by one of many viruses that attack the skin. Often seen in areas of skin damage. Younger pts or those never exposed can get warts. They can be treated with topical meds. But are hard to get rid of. Some require scooping out in an office visit with your doc. Some" warts" on the foot are really just hard skin.

Warts : Warts are caused by a virus and best treated by a professional.

A skin virus.: You can try over the counter wart removers, but be careful: i've seen them do more harm than good. Other options your doctor might offer include cryotherapy (freezing the wart), electrocautery (burning the wart), laser treatment, or several different topical chemical treatments. If the treatment is typically uncomfortable, your doctor can numb the area before proceeding.