A plantar fibroma is a benign tumor that develops in the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot. Typically found in the arch, it appears as a firm lump that may cause discomfort during walking or standing. Diagnosing a plantar fibroma involves a thorough medical history and physical examination, where a podiatrist will assess the lump's size, location, and texture. Imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI scans may be employed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. The exact causes of plantar fibromas remain unclear, though factors such as genetics, trauma, and certain medical conditions may contribute to their development. Having a plantar fibroma can be uncomfortable. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you relief options.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Apple Podiatry Group. 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 Arlington Fort Worth, And Flower Mound, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Pregnancy often brings a range of physical changes, and foot pain is a common complaint among expectant mothers. As the body prepares for childbirth, hormonal fluctuations cause ligaments to loosen, which can lead to instability in the feet and ankles. Additionally, the growing uterus increases weight and pressure on the feet, contributing to discomfort and swelling. The shift in the body's center of gravity during pregnancy can alter walking patterns, placing added stress on the feet. Edema, or swelling, commonly occurs due to fluid retention, causing feelings of heaviness and pain. Changes in foot shape, often resulting in wider and flatter feet, can also lead to discomfort. If you have developed foot pain while pregnant, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you to find relief during this transformative time.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Apple Podiatry Group. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Arlington Fort Worth, And Flower Mound, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The ankle's movement and stability rely on bones, ligaments, and muscles working together. The main bones involved are the tibia, fibula, and talus. These form the ankle joint, which allows the foot to move up and down. Ligaments, like the deltoid, anterior talofibular, and calcaneofibular ligaments, help keep the ankle stable and control side-to-side movements. When we walk, the ankle flexes upwards when the heel touches the ground and pushes down as we lift the foot off. In cases of severe damage or arthritis, ankle replacement surgery may be needed, where the joint is replaced with artificial parts to restore movement. If you have ankle pain or discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can diagnose the problem and recommend treatments to help you regain proper walking function and stability.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Apple Podiatry Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Arlington Fort Worth, And Flower Mound, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.