Athlete’s Foot, Plantar Warts and Other Contagious Foot Conditions

Important Health and Safety Information for Clients

Certain foot conditions are highly contagious and pose a risk not only to you, but also to your massage therapist and other clients. For everyone’s safety, please inform your therapist before your session if you currently have or suspect any contagious foot condition, including athlete’s foot or plantar warts.

Plantar Warts: What You Need to Know

Plantar warts are caused by specific strains of the human papillomavirus, also known as HPV. This virus thrives in warm, moist environments and is commonly contracted in places such as public showers, locker rooms, gyms, pools, and communal changing areas.

The virus spreads through direct skin contact and can survive on surfaces for extended periods of time. It typically enters the body through small cuts, cracks, or abrasions on the soles of the feet. Because of this, symptoms may not appear for weeks or even months after exposure.

Common signs and symptoms of plantar warts include raised or hardened skin on the sole of the foot, small rough lesions that resemble calluses, pain or tenderness when standing or walking, a cauliflower like appearance, and tiny black dots caused by clotted blood vessels.

Why This Matters

If left untreated, plantar warts can spread to other areas of the foot or to the opposite foot. They may multiply and increase in size, cause significant discomfort or pain while walking, and be transmitted to others through shared surfaces or direct contact.

Because massage therapy often involves direct contact with the feet, untreated plantar warts present a real risk of cross contamination. If you suspect you have plantar warts, please consult a licensed medical provider as soon as possible. Treatment may involve medical removal or management, and your therapist may need to postpone foot work until the condition is properly addressed.

A Note on Treatment and Management

There is no guaranteed cure that permanently eliminates HPV from the body. However, many treatments successfully remove visible warts and reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others. Medical options may include cryotherapy, laser treatment, topical medications, or other physician directed care.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that is highly contagious and commonly spread in the same environments as plantar warts. Symptoms may include itching, burning or stinging sensations, redness or peeling skin, cracking between the toes, and excessive moisture or odor.

Active fungal infections must be disclosed prior to treatment, as they can easily spread through touch, linens, floors, and shared surfaces.

Preventative Foot Care Protect Yourself and Others

You can significantly reduce your risk by following these precautions.

1. Always cover cuts or open areas on your feet when swimming or using public facilities.

2. Wear flip flops or shower shoes in public showers and locker rooms.

3. Never share towels, socks, or footwear.

4. Avoid walking barefoot in public spaces.

5. Keep feet clean, dry, and well maintained.

Your health and the health of your therapist matter. Open communication helps ensure a safe, respectful, and professional environment for everyone. If you have questions or concerns about foot conditions and massage therapy, please reach out before your appointment.

With care and support,

Suzan Walker LMT

Massage Therapy Disclaimer

Massage therapy is a professional healthcare service but is not a substitute for medical treatment. A massage therapist cannot diagnose, treat, or prevent medical conditions. Recommendations may include products, services, or referrals to a licensed physician or mental health professional.

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