Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot or nodule in the arch of the foot.  It develops as a benign growth of the fibrous tissue that makes up the plantar fascia, a large structure that runs along the entire plantar foot.  Plantar fibromas may develop in one or both feet, and will typically not resolve without treatment.  Fibromas develop as a defect in the growth of the fibrous cells, however, the exact mechanism that causes this is not clearly understood. 

Plantar fibromas begin as a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot.  They may increase in size over time, or may stay the same size.  They are firm to the touch, and may cause pain from an uncomfortable shoe irritating the lump.  However, not all people with plantar fibromas have pain as a symptom.  Generally plantar fibromas are isolated, but some people have several that develop on the same foot. 

A podiatrist may diagnose a plantar fibroma after examining the patient’s foot.  If there is pain associated with the lesion, it may recreate pain that extend into the toes.  MRI may be ordered in some cases to further evaluate the lesion with advanced imaging. 

Treatment of plantar fibroma begins with conservative therapy.  This may include anti-inflammatory medication if the lesion is irritating deeper structures, thereby causing pain.  A cortisone injection can also be used to help shrink down the fibroma.  This will typically only be a temporary fix, as the lesion may come back to original size. 

Accommodative orthotics may be used to relieve pressure to a plantar fibroma.  This is generally an orthotic with a piece cut out to fit the lesion. 

Surgical intervention relies on removing the lesion from the plantar fascia.  This should only be considered if the patient has not had any relief from conservative measures.  Typically, a small incision is made along the inside of the foot, and the fibroma is teased away from the plantar fascia.  Depending on the size and extent of the fibroma, some of the plantar fascia may need to be removed with the fibroma. 

Any new lumps or bumps on your feet, or on any part of your body for that matter, should be evaluated by a doctor promptly.  While most lesions are benign, some can be more ominous than others.  Plantar fibromas are just one example of a benign lesion that has a very small percentage chance of turning malignant.  For this reason, they should be evaluated thoroughly.  

Central Florida Foot & Ankle Center, LLC 
101 6th Street N.W. 
Winter Haven, FL 33881 
Phone: 863-299-4551 
www.FLFootandAnkle.com