Blog - Foot Doctor, Chambersburg and McConnellsburg, PA

Plantar fibromas, benign tumors that develop in the plantar fascia of the foot, can cause discomfort and limit mobility for those affected. While conservative treatments may alleviate symptoms, surgery becomes a consideration for persistent cases. Surgical intervention aims to remove the fibrous tissue while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. The procedure involves making an incision in the foot to access and excise the fibroma, followed by meticulous closure to promote proper healing. Recovery from plantar fibroma surgery typically involves a period of immobilization, followed by gradual rehabilitation to restore strength and flexibility to the affected foot. While surgery carries inherent risks and requires careful consideration, it can offer long-term relief and improved quality of life for individuals with symptomatic plantar fibromas. Consulting with a podiatric surgeon and exploring all treatment options can help individuals make informed decisions regarding their foot health and overall well-being. If you have a plantar fibroma, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can determine if this type of surgery is correct for you.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. 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 offices located in Chambersburg, and Mcconnellsburg, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Foot blisters are pockets of fluid that can disrupt our stride, and arise from a multitude of sources, often interconnected. Friction, a primary culprit, occurs when shoes rub against the skin, creating heat and pressure that lead to the formation of blisters. Ill-fitting footwear, especially those that are too tight or too loose, exacerbates this friction. Moisture is another contributing factor, as damp conditions soften the skin, making it more susceptible to friction-related injuries. Prolonged periods of standing or walking intensify these forces, increasing the likelihood of blister formation. Foot deformities or irregularities, such as bunions or hammertoes, can also contribute by causing uneven pressure distribution. It is helpful to know the reason a blister has formed on your foot. If you have one or multiple foot blisters, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective prevention methods.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz of Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

Creating a safe environment within each room of your house is vital to preventing falls and promoting overall well-being. In the bathroom, install non-slip mats and grab bars near the shower and toilet to enhance stability. Keep pathways clear in the living room, securing loose rugs and removing clutter that might pose a tripping hazard. Adequate lighting in the bedroom is essential for visibility, reducing the risk of stumbling in the dark. In the kitchen, ensure spills are promptly cleaned, and arrange commonly used items within easy reach to avoid unnecessary stretching or bending. Staircases demand sturdy handrails and proper lighting to facilitate safe navigation. Regularly inspect and maintain flooring in all rooms, addressing any uneven surfaces promptly. By incorporating these preventive measures throughout your home, you create a secure living space that minimizes the likelihood of falls, allowing you to move confidently and enjoy every room without the worry of potential accidents. If you require additional information about implementing fall prevention techniques which may help to protect the feet, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist.

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 Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. 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 offices located in Chambersburg, and Mcconnellsburg, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.