Our bodies’ lumps and bumps frequently give us pause. They usually signal a problem and should not be overlooked. It’s most likely a plantar fibroma if you have a prominent lump or knot on the bottom of your foot that feels stiff to the touch.

This fibrous nodule develops in the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs from your toes to your heel. The problem isn’t always uncomfortable, but it can be if you put pressure on the lump from your shoes pressing against your arch. If you walk or stand barefoot, it may hurt. Although any bump should be taken seriously, this specific mass is absolutely harmless. However, it has the ability to spread and develop in size. As a result, it’s critical to see your podiatrist.

If you see a lump on your body that wasn’t there before, schedule an appointment with your doctor very once. A podiatrist will conduct a foot examination to determine the presence of plantar fibroma. Expect the doctor to press on the lump, which may produce agony that extends all the way to your toes—a sure sign that you have the illness. For a more thorough examination, a biopsy or an MRI may be required.

There are several non-surgical therapy options for plantar fibroma that can help with pain relief, but they won’t be able to entirely remove the lump. These treatments essentially manage the disease so that you can go about your daily routine as painlessly as possible. Treatments that aren’t surgical include:

• Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises in combination with topical anti-inflammatory medications can control plantar fibroma and keep it from getting worse.
• Orthotic Shoe Inserts: Your podiatrist can prescribe custom orthotics to place in your shoes. These will reduce pain by distributing your weight away from the fibroma. However, these will only work if the lump, or fibroma, is not changing in size.
• Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid medication can be injected to help shrink the mass, thereby relieving pain caused from pressure against it. The reduction in size may only be temporary, though, and the mass can slowly grow large again. 

When a fibroma grows in size and pain worsens, it may be necessary to consider surgical removal. If you are still in pain and discomfort after trying all of the non-surgical options, surgery is your last resort. The method for removing a plantar fibroma, however, is not without risk. Although orthotics may help offer support, it may result in the development of hammertoes or falling arches. Unfortunately, because this illness has such a high rate of recurrence, ongoing care is required.

Need a Same Day Appointment? Call 1-804-273-1717

If you become concerned if you notice a bump on the bottom of your foot. Achilles Foot and Ankle Center is located in Richmond, Virginia. Our doctors can assess the situation and set your mind at ease. To discover more about plantar fibromas and what you can do to live comfortably with this issue, call (804) 273-1717.