A plantar fibroma is a fibrous nodule in the arch of the foot that is noticeable and firm to the touch. It is embedded in the plantar fascia, the band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes on the bottom of the foot. This can occur in one or both feet, it is usually a benign development, and it can remain the same size, get bigger, or multiply over time. This problem may or may not cause pain, but when pain is felt, it is often due to shoes pushing up against the lump in the arch. Pain can also arise when walking or standing barefoot. Specific causes for this condition have not been identified. Nonsurgical treatment, such as steroid injections, orthotics, or physical therapy, may help relieve pain of a plantar fibroma, but it will not make the mass go away. Surgical removal of the fibroma can be considered if nonsurgical approaches do not work, but this can lead to a flat foot or hammertoes. This condition has a high incidence of recurrence, and it is suggested that you see a podiatrist if you think that you have a plantar fibroma to confirm the diagnosis and get a professional opinion on the right treatment for you.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Cascade Foot Clinic. 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 Bend, OR. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.