A plantar fibroma is a benign growth of fibrous tissue that forms on the bottom of the foot, typically along the arch. It is often described as a lump or nodule and can vary in size. The main symptom of a plantar fibroma is localized pain or discomfort in the affected area, particularly when walking or standing for long periods. In some cases, the fibroma may not cause pain but may still be noticeable as a firm lump under the skin. The exact cause of plantar fibromas is not entirely understood but is believed to be linked to genetic factors, trauma, or certain medical conditions such as diabetes or liver disease. Diagnosis is usually made through a physical examination, where a podiatrist may palpate the foot to feel for the fibroma. Imaging tests like an ultrasound or MRI may also confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. If you have developed a lump along the arch of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat a plantar fibroma.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Patrice Antero, DPM of Tuscany Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

• Steroid injections
• Orthotics
• Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Tuscaloosa, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Recovering from ankle surgery requires patience and proper care to ensure the best outcome. After the procedure, it is important to follow your podiatrist’s instructions closely to prevent complications and promote healing. In the first few days, rest is vital, and the foot should be elevated to reduce swelling. Ice can also help manage swelling and pain. Depending on the surgery, a cast or boot may be prescribed to immobilize the ankle and support the healing process. Specific stretches and exercises are often recommended once the initial healing phase is over, helping to restore strength, flexibility, and mobility. Full recovery can take several months to a year, depending on the severity of the injury and intricacy of the surgery. Throughout the recovery process, avoiding weight-bearing activities and carefully performing rehabilitation exercises are key to ensuring the ankle heals properly and that normal function is restored. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can discuss whether ankle surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Patrice Antero, DPM of Tuscany Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Tuscaloosa, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A walking boot, also called a medical boot, is used to protect and stabilize the foot and ankle while recovering from injuries or surgery. This device supports healing by restricting unnecessary movement, which reduces the risk of additional damage. Walking boots are constructed from rigid materials, such as plastic, to immobilize the injured area, while adjustable straps ensure a secure fit. They also help redistribute body weight evenly across the foot, alleviating pressure on specific areas, including bones, tendons, and ligaments. By reducing strain, walking boots promote a more natural walking motion, allowing people to move with less pain. Common injuries that benefit from a walking boot include fractures, sprains, and tendon injuries. A podiatrist can assess the severity of your injury and determine if a walking boot is appropriate, ensuring it provides the correct level of immobilization and support for recovery. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options, which may include a walking boot.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Patrice Antero, DPM from Tuscany Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Tuscaloosa, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.