Plantar warts can be frustrating—for patients and providers alike. Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these lesions often resist traditional treatments and can linger for months or even years. Fortunately, advances in technology have introduced a highly effective, non-invasive option: SWIFT® microwave therapy.
What Are Plantar Warts?
Plantar warts develop on the soles of the feet when HPV enters the skin through small cuts or abrasions. Because the virus thrives in warm, moist environments, warts are commonly picked up in locker rooms, pools, and communal showers. Over time, pressure from walking can cause them to grow inward, leading to pain, callus formation, and difficulty with daily activities.
Traditional Wart Treatments: Why They Often Fall Short
Conventional treatments such as salicylic acid, cryotherapy (freezing), and topical chemicals focus on destroying wart tissue. While these methods can work, they often:
- Require multiple visits over many months
- Cause significant discomfort or blistering
- Fail to fully eradicate the virus
- Lead to high recurrence rates
This is where SWIFT® therapy offers a major advantage.
What Is SWIFT® Microwave Therapy?
SWIFT® is an FDA-cleared technology that uses precisely delivered microwave energy to treat warts at their source. Rather than destroying the skin, SWIFT® works by stimulating the body’s immune response to recognize and clear the HPV virus.
The treatment delivers short bursts of microwave energy directly into the wart tissue, heating it in a controlled manner. This thermal effect signals the immune system to target the virus—not just at the treated site, but potentially elsewhere on the body as well.
Benefits of SWIFT® for Wart Treatment
SWIFT® therapy has become increasingly popular due to its unique advantages:
- No open wounds – Skin remains intact
- Minimal downtime – Patients return to normal activities immediately
- No dressings or aftercare – No blistering or chemical burns
- Effective for stubborn warts – Even long-standing or previously treated lesions
- Immune-based approach – Treats the virus, not just the surface lesion
Many patients also report that untreated satellite warts improve or resolve during the course of therapy, reinforcing the immune-mediated mechanism.
What Does Treatment Feel Like?
SWIFT® treatments are brief—typically just a few seconds per lesion. Patients often describe a sensation of heat or pressure during delivery, which quickly subsides. Most warts require 2–4 sessions, spaced about four weeks apart.
Who Is a Good Candidate for SWIFT®?
SWIFT® therapy is appropriate for:
- Adults and children
- Patients with painful or multiple plantar warts
- Individuals with warts that have failed other treatments
- Athletes or active patients who want minimal interruption to activity
Your provider will evaluate each case individually to determine the best treatment plan.
Why Choose SWIFT®?
Unlike older treatments that repeatedly damage skin, SWIFT® works with your body’s natural defenses. This makes it a powerful option for clearing warts safely, efficiently, and with a lower risk of recurrence.
Final Thoughts
Plantar warts don’t have to be a long-term problem. With SWIFT® microwave therapy, patients now have access to a modern, evidence-based treatment that addresses the underlying virus while preserving healthy skin. If you’ve struggled with persistent warts, talk to us at Hollowbrook Foot Specialists about whether SWIFT® is right for you.
By: Dr. Yavor Geshev, DPM, FACPM
