If you have noticed a knot in the arch of your foot and experienced pain on walking or with
pressure from shoes, you may have a plantar fibroma. Painful conditions of the foot and ankle
are, well, a pain. We can help. Our Atlanta podiatrist is experienced in treating all conditions of
the foot and ankle. Give us a call for an appointment. We can perform an exam and suggest a
treatment plan that brings you relief so you can get back to the things that matter.
Symptoms of Plantar Fibroma
- Excess collagen that forms a nodule or lump in the arch of the foot.
- Pain on standing or walking. Not everyone with plantar fibroma experiences pain.
- The knot may remain consistently sized or grow over time.
- Nodules may be present on one or both feet. Multiple nodules may be present.
Causes of Plantar Fibroma
Although some connection has been established between taking certain drugs (such as Dilantin)
and the occurrence of plantar fibroma, there is no definitive cause for the condition. Genetics or
trauma to the foot have also been loosely established as factors.
How we can help
Our Atlanta podiatrist will exam your foot and apply pressure to the nodule. In some cases
imaging or biopsy may be required to develop a full picture of the problem. We will also talk
with you to understand your symptoms and how they impact your activities of daily living. Our
goal is to arrive at an accurate diagnosis and work with you to develop the most appropriate
treatment plan.
Treatment options for plantar fibroma
You want to feel better fast, we can help. Options include:
- Steroid injections – injections may help to shrink the nodule so that walking or shoe
pressure is more comfortable.
- Gel applications
- Inserts – padding may also relieve pressure or shift weight so that walking is more
comfortable.
- Physical therapy
- Over the counter anti-inflammatory pain relievers such as Aleve
- Activity modification
These non-surgical options often bring relief. However, if discomfort persists our Atlanta
podiatrist can talk with you about surgical options. Surgery is reserved as a last resort because
the reoccurrence of plantar fibroma is common with removal only surgery. More extensive
surgery can eliminate the risk of reoccurrence but may introduce other complications such as
flattened arch or hammertoes. We will work with you to achieve the best long-term outcome
with relief of plantar fibroma. Give us a call for expertise that gets results.
