Definition of a Plantar Fibroma

The foot condition known as plantar fibromatosis is rare. A plantar fibroma is a fibrous, hardened area in the shape of a circle that develops in the arch. It is a benign growth, and it may form in both feet. Many patients don't report pain unless they walk barefoot or their shoe pushes against it. A plantar fibroma may occur if an injury has happened to the sole or from the consistent pressure the feet endure while running. Research has indicated it may happen from taking certain medications, such as anti-seizure medicine, beta-blockers, or excessive doses of vitamin C. An MRI is generally performed that can correctly diagnose a plantar fibroma and may be followed with a biopsy. Mild relief may be found when custom-made orthotics are worn, in addition to taking anti-inflammatory medication. If you have discovered a lump on the sole of your foot, it is suggested that you speak to 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 one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors 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 offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.