Plantar fibromatosis, also known as Ledderhose disease, is a rare condition in which benign fibrous nodules form in the arch of the foot along the plantar fascia. These growths develop slowly and may cause discomfort or pain when walking or standing, especially if the nodules become larger or press against footwear. The exact cause is not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified. Genetics may play a role, as the condition sometimes runs in families. People with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, epilepsy, or liver disease, may have a higher risk. Additionally, repeated foot trauma or strain on the plantar fascia could also contribute. If you have lumps on the sole of your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can effectively monitor and treat this condition.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Richard DiBacco, DPM of Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. 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 one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A bunion is more than a bump. It often signals how our feet adapt to years of pressure, imbalance, or genetics. This bony change at the base of the big toe can slowly alter the way we walk, affecting posture and even knee or hip alignment. While tight shoes and high heels are often blamed, bunions can form even in sensible footwear if foot mechanics are off. Pain, redness, or difficulty finding comfortable shoes are common complaints. Early care might involve custom inserts, padding, and toe spacers to ease pressure. In advanced cases, surgical realignment may offer lasting relief. Rather than waiting until the pain interferes with daily life, addressing a bunion early can help prevent further complications. If your big toe is drifting or causing discomfort, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Richard DiBacco, DPM of Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. 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 one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An Achilles tendon rupture is a significant injury that often occurs during sports or sudden movement, usually felt as a sharp pain or a popping sensation in the back of the ankle. Walking becomes difficult, and pushing off the foot may feel impossible. Management depends on the severity of the tear and the patient’s overall health and activity level. Non-surgical treatment includes immobilization with a cast or walking boot, followed by specific exercises to restore strength and flexibility. Surgical repair may be recommended for younger or more active individuals to reduce the risk of re-rupture and support a quicker return to activity. Both approaches require a period of rest, followed by a carefully guided rehabilitation program. Prompt diagnosis is key to determining the most effective treatment. If you experience sudden pain or loss of function in your lower leg, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Richard DiBacco, DPM of Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Pain in the bottom of the foot, especially sharp pain or a burning sensation, can be caused by several conditions. One common cause is plantar fasciitis, where the tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed, often leading to sharp pain near the heel. Another potential cause is neuropathy, a condition where nerve damage causes a burning or tingling sensation. Metatarsalgia or inflammation of the ball of the foot can also lead to discomfort, often described as a feeling of standing on a small stone. Symptoms typically include sharp or burning pain in the foot's arch or heel, especially after standing or walking for long periods. The area may feel tender, swollen, or tight. A podiatrist can help diagnose the underlying cause through physical exams, imaging tests, or nerve function tests. Treatment may include rest, stretching exercises, custom orthotics or anti-inflammatory medications. If you are dealing with foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for care.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Richard DiBacco, DPM from Podiatry Associates of Erie, Inc.. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Erie and Meadville, PA, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.