Plantar Fibroma Causes Arch Pain

A plantar fibroma is a condition that is characterized by a thickening of the fibrous tissue on the bottom of your foot. It can display as pain and stiffness in your arch or other parts of the sole which can make it difficult to walk. As the condition worsens, nodules can grow on the connecting fibers in the arch, causing your toes to bend and become stiff. These growths are most often non-cancerous and grow very slowly or even remain dormant for years, but then they can suddenly start up again.

Plantar Fibroma Symptoms and Causes

Some of the symptoms and causes of plantar fibroma include the following:

• Increased pain when standing and walking—Plantar fibroma itself is usually not painful, but it can cause discomfort from rubbing on your footwear. You may also experience painful pressure against nerves in the foot that is more pronounced when you put weight on your feet.
• Genetic predisposition—The actual cause of plantar fibroma is not completely understood, but it tends to run in families and more often affects people with flat feet.
• Foot injury—Stress on the arch caused by improper footwear and arch injury can stretch the tissue and increase the likelihood of fibromas forming.

Treatments for Plantar Fibroma

Conservative treatments for plantar fibroma will often include orthotic shoe inserts like toe spacers to modify weight distribution over the joints and structures of the toes. Lightweight and supportive footwear with flat soles and ample toe room will also help relieve pain and discomfort. In severe cases, cryosurgery may be recommended to freeze and shrink the nodules.

If you are experiencing pain in your arches, see your podiatrist for the proper diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Scott Nelson of Foot and Ankle Medical Clinic in Garland, TX, is a board-certified and highly experienced podiatrist who has helped people suffering from all types of foot and ankle injuries and deformities. From bunions to diabetic foot problems, sports injuries and fungal nails, you can trust that Dr. Nelson and his staff are wholeheartedly devoted to your foot health. Please contact our office with any questions you may have or to schedule an appointment by calling 972-414-9800.