SWIFT Microwave Therapy is a game-changing way to treat warts on your hands and feet. It works by sending a controlled zap of microwave energy deep into the skin to elicit your body’s immune system and help it fight off the virus causing the wart.
Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can be spread through direct contact or shared surfaces (Showers, public spaces).
Presentation: Small, firm bumps with a rough texture on the skin surface
A hard, grainy, or rough growth on the sole of the foot
A thickened patch of skin (may look like a callus)
Black dots (small clotted blood vessels, sometimes called wart “seeds”)
If unsure, come visit us today!
Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus with over 100 different strains. It infects the top layer of your skin, usually through tiny cuts or breaks, and causes skin cells to grow rapidly, forming a wart.
You don’t need to come into contact with someone who has a visible wart. HPV can live on surfaces and spread through:
At Head2Toe Physiotherapy and Podiatry, we are committed to providing advanced, evidence-based solutions for the effective treatment of common and plantar warts. Our clinic is proud to offer SWIFT Microwave Therapy, a leading-edge technology that targets the underlying cause of warts with precision and efficiency.
Our podiatrists are highly trained in the assessment and treatment of warts across all age groups. With extensive experience and clinical knowledge, we tailor each treatment plan to the individual, ensuring optimal care and outcomes.
A podiatrist performs a thorough clinical examination to confirm the lesion is a wart (caused by HPV), not a corn or another skin condition.
Skin is cleaned, and any overlying callus is debrided if needed.
The SWIFT applicator is applied to the wart, delivering 3–5 bursts of microwave energy (usually at 10W for 2 seconds per application, depending on protocol).
The heat penetrates ~8–10mm into the tissue, stimulating a heat-shock protein response and activating local immune cells.
Patient will be informed on a follow up session, usually after 4 weeks.
Ideal for those who have tried freezing, acid, or surgery without success
Especially helpful for long-standing warts that have not responded to other treatments
Perfect for athletes, tradespeople, and busy professionals who need to stay on their feet
No need for dressings, wound care, or time off work/sport
SWIFT is quick, clean, and doesn’t require cutting or anaesthetic
Children and teenagers tolerate it well with minimal discomfort
Unlike destructive treatments, SWIFT stimulates the body’s immune system to clear the virus internally
Ideal for those who want a longer-term solution and reduced risk of recurrence
Suitable for treating more than one wart at a time
Especially useful for mosaic or plantar warts that cover larger areas
SWIFT is suitable for most common warts (hands) and plantar warts (feet), including long-standing or treatment-resistant cases.
Most patients describe the sensation as a brief, hot pinch lasting 1–2 seconds. Some mild soreness or sensitivity may follow, but there is no lasting discomfort.
Typically, 3 to 4 sessions are required, spaced 3–4 weeks apart. This allows time for the immune system to respond between treatments.
No. You can walk, work, and exercise as normal immediately after the session. There is no need for dressings or wound care.
Yes, depending on the number and location, multiple warts can often be treated in a single session.
SWIFT is safe for most people, including children. However, it is not recommended for:
Your podiatrist will determine if you are a suitable candidate during your initial consultation.
SWIFT stimulates the body’s own immune response, which often leads to long-term immunity against the specific strain of HPV causing the wart. This reduces the risk of recurrence compared to destructive methods.
Some private health funds may cover a portion of the treatment under podiatry services. We recommend checking with your insurer. Our team can provide a detailed receipt for claiming purposes.
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