Falknor’s technique works by creating local inflammation subsequently stimulating a cell mediated immune response against the virus. Needling the lesion (under local anaesthetic) lets the body realise that the virus is there and fights it away. If successful, the wart usually clears within 12 weeks, often much sooner. In resistant cases a second needling session may be required. When multiple lesions are present only one of them (the mother, or largest lesion) needs to be treated.

The process involves numbing the area with the injection of a local anaesthetic.

The lesion is then needled 80-100 times with a sterile needle.

A dressing is applied to the area

Minimal pain or bleeding occur post procedure. The anaesthetic will last for 2-3 hours post procedure which provides some pain relief and then paracetamol is recommended as required. The area may feel bruised or grazed for 1-2 days.

It is ideal for anyone who is not able to attend regularly for treatment or wishes a shorter treatment time, often with only 2-4 appointments required. Location of the warts can make this treatment more difficult to perform and requires the use of local anaesthetic which may be contraindicated in some individuals or needle phobias may be present.

Studies have reported a 64.7% (Cunningham et al, 2014) and 69% (Longhurst and Bristow, 2013) resolution rate.