Some experts believe that physical trauma to the foot may be a factor in the development of a plantar fibroma. Repetitive foot injuries can lead to tearing of the fascia in the arch, which encourages the growth of fibromas.
The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society , however, discounts trauma as a factor in nodule growth. Research has linked several medical conditions and lifestyle choices to the development of a plantar fibroma. However, the study adds that these conditions probably contribute to a plantar fibroma rather than cause it directly. There is also an association between plantar fibroma and some medications and supplements including:. Sometimes a person will require surgery to remove the mass.
As with any surgery, there is a risk of complications including infection. There is also a risk that the fibroma will return. Additional tests may be necessary in some cases. During the physical exam, the doctor will press on the fibroma and surrounding area. A doctor may order further tests, including an X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging MRI scan to rule out other foot conditions including:.
A biopsy is not usually required, except where the imaging scans indicate that the lump may be cancerous. Treatment aims to alleviate pain and reduce the size of the mass. Small plantar fibromas that do not cause symptoms may not require any treatment. A topical gel treats plantar fibroma by stopping the growth of fibrosis tissue. Some gels claim that they can alleviate pain within a few months of use.
Definitive causes for this condition have not been clearly identified. Signs and Symptoms The characteristic sign of a plantar fibroma is a noticeable lump in the arch that feels firm to the touch. This mass can remain the same size or get larger over time, or additional fibromas may develop. People who have a plantar fibroma may or may not have pain. When pain does occur, it is often caused by shoes pushing against the lump in the arch, although it can also arise when walking or standing barefoot.
Diagnosis To diagnose a plantar fibroma, the foot and ankle surgeon will examine the foot and press on the affected area. Sometimes this can produce pain that extends down to the toes.
This mass can remain the same size or get larger over time or additional fibromas may develop. People who have a plantar fibroma may or may not have pain. When pain occurs, it is often caused by shoes pushing against the lump in the arch, although it can also arise when walking or standing barefoot.
To diagnose a plantar fibroma, the foot and ankle surgeon will examine the foot and press on the affected area. Sometimes this can produce pain that extends down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy may be performed to further evaluate the lump and aid in diagnosis. Nonsurgical treatment may help relieve the pain of a plantar fibroma, although it will not make the mass disappear.
The foot and ankle surgeon may select one or more of the following nonsurgical options:. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission.
A plantar fibroma is a noncancerous or benign growth in the arch of your foot. It develops in the plantar fascia, which is thick, fibrous tissue at the bottom of your feet. This tissue covers the area from your heel to your toes and stabilizes your foot arch. This nodule, which grows slowly over time, can develop on one foot or both feet. A single lesion is referred to as a plantar fibroma.
A condition called plantar fibromatosis can develop if the lesion starts to enlarge and others develop on the plantar aspect, or sole, of your foot. This rare condition is also known as Ledderhose disease. Although anyone can develop a plantar fibroma, it typically occurs in middle age. Men are also more likely to be affected. A plantar fibroma growth typically appears on the bottom of your foot, namely in the middle of the arch.
In the early stages, these growths cause little discomfort. They often appear as little more than small bumps. You may not notice the nodule unless it begins to grow in size. You may begin to experience pain or discomfort if the nodule becomes larger or if external pressure is applied to the affected area. This includes friction from wearing shoes, walking for an extended period, and standing barefoot. Plantar fibromas are benign. On occasion, they will regress on their own. The exact cause of a plantar fibroma is unknown, although some experts suspect a genetic component.
For example, there is a higher rate of fibrotic conditions in people of Northern European descent. An injury may cause tears in the fascia of the bottom of your feet, promoting the growth of nodules.
0コメント