A plantar fibroma is a benign growth of tissue that develops on the bottom of the foot, typically in the arch area. It is characterized by the formation of fibrous nodules or lumps in the plantar fascia, the band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. The exact cause of a plantar fibroma is not always clear, but it may be linked to genetic factors, injury, or excessive stress on the feet. Symptoms of a plantar fibroma include the presence of a small, firm lump in the arch of the foot, which can cause pain or discomfort, especially while walking or standing for long periods. In some cases, the fibroma may not cause noticeable symptoms unless it grows large or presses on surrounding tissues. If you have a lump in the arch of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis, and offer the best treatment for you.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Kentston Cripe, DPM of Roseville Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 office located in Roseville, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Balance exercises can play a vital role in maintaining stability and preventing falls, especially as people age. Poor balance often stems from weakened muscles in the feet, ankles, and toes, which are key areas for maintaining a steady gait. Declining strength can make daily activities like walking or standing more challenging, which increases the risk of falls. Regular balance exercises that target these areas, like heel raises or toe taps, can enhance muscle coordination and foot control. These exercises not only strengthen the lower body but also improve proprioception, or the body’s awareness of its position in space. A podiatrist can evaluate your feet and ankles for issues that may contribute to balance problems, such as deformities, joint instability, or conditions like arthritis. This foot doctor also can recommend specific strategies to improve foot and ankle strength and reduce your risk of falls. If you are exhibiting balance problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam that may help to avoid falling.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Kentston Cripe, DPM from Roseville Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roseville, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a deformity that occurs when the big toe and its connecting joint shift out of alignment, often resulting in a bony bump at the base of the toe. A bunion, also referred to as hallux valgus, can cause pain, redness, and swelling in the big toe joint, particularly when wearing tight or narrow shoes. Over time, the joint may become increasingly enlarged, and complications like bursitis, limited motion, or osteoarthritis can develop. Diagnosis is typically made through a podiatrist's examination and may include imaging scans to assess the extent of joint damage. Treatment of bunions often focuses on relieving pressure and discomfort through orthotic devices, wider footwear, or in severe cases, surgery to correct the misalignment. A podiatrist can provide personalized care to address symptoms, improve mobility, and prevent further progression of your bunion. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Kentston Cripe, DPM of Roseville Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Roseville, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.