Lumps and bumps on the human body are not altogether uncommon. They can occur just about anywhere, develop over time or appear suddenly, be painless or cause discomfort. In many cases, you may not give them a second thought, but when these lumps or bumps remain for a long time and begin to cause issues with things as simple as walking or wearing a pair of shoes, it’s time to get to the bottom of things.

Foot Lumps from Bunions

A bunion is a bony protrusion that occurs at the base of the big toe. It occurs when the first metatarsal bone shifts, causing the bones to overlap and create a bump. It is among the most common bumps found on the feet, affecting approximately 3 million Americans. It is also a condition which develops over time, meaning that a small and relatively unnoticeably bump can eventually turn into a much larger and more bothersome one. While there may be some pain and discomfort associated with bunions, they are often adequately addressed with minor changes like shoes. In other instances, they may be so bothersome to a patient that surgery is used to realign the bones and remove the lump caused by the bunion.

Morton’s Neuroma Foot Lumps

If you have noticed a small bump between your 3rd and 4th or 2nd and 3rd toes that often feels like a sock bunched up or a small pebble underfoot, you may have a Morton’s neuroma. A neuroma is a nerve that has become pinched or swollen, causing problems like pain and numbness. The most common cause of a Morton’s neuroma is repetitive trauma to that area of the foot. Frequently wearing high heels or tight-fitting shoes is a common culprit. A change in this shoe selection will often bring relief. If not, other treatment options include steroidal injections and even surgical release if necessary.

Foot Lumps from Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are small, rough growths that are most commonly found on weightbearing areas of the foot such as the heel or ball. They are the result of the human papillomavirus (HPV) which has entered the area through a cut or break in the skin. While these warts can be removed, they are harmless and will typically disappear on their own.

Plantar Fibroma Lumps

Plantar fibromas are benign lumps that occur on the arch of the foot, along the plantar fascia. This is another condition which may become more noticeable and bothersome over time, causing problems such as pain in the arch while wearing shoes. Most often, the condition affects men over the age of 40. For most patients, orthotics for more comfortable shoe wear, over-the-counter pain medications, physical therapy and possible cortisone injections are enough to bring relief. Surgery for plantar fibromas is rare.

Baton Rouge Foot Doctors

If you are bothered by a mysterious lump on your foot, your best course of action is to consult a podiatrist. Foot and ankle specialists like those at the Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge can give you a diagnosis for your condition and treatment options to take care of it once and for all. To get started on your journey to being lump-free, click below and request an appointment.