What Does a Plantar Fibroma Look Like?
Plantar fibromas occurs more often in middle-aged to elderly people and is more likely in men than women. Fibromas occur suddenly can increase rapidly in size.
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Location
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The plantar fascia is the tendon that connects the heel to the ball of the foot. Plantar fibromas are collections of collagen that form within this tendon.
Appearance
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Depending on the size, a plantar fibroma may show no outward swelling but feel like a hard mass under the skin. Larger growths will cause a knot to form. Internally, collagen is whitish and the fibroma will appear round.
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Causes
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Trauma such as bruising or puncture wounds, as well as plantar fasciitis—inflammation of the plantar fascia, which extends from the heel to the toes—can lead to plantar fibromas. Research also links genetics, medications and pre-existing conditions like diabetes to fibroma formation.
Pathology
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This fibroma is typically a benign tumor. However, if you have a history of cancer or the fibroma grows rapidly, the doctor may want to perform a biopsy.
Treatment
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Unless the fibroma grows too large to allow the patient freedom of movement, doctors rarely recommended surgery. Patients undergo physical therapy, steroid injections, or use an orthotic support to lessen the pain, though the fibroma will never disappear.
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References
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- Photo Credit feet image by BVDC from Fotolia.com
