Items filtered by date: February 2025

Plantar fibromatosis is a rare condition that affects the tissue on the bottom of the foot, causing the growth of benign nodules or lumps in the plantar fascia. These lumps are usually firm and may vary in size. The exact cause of plantar fibromatosis is not fully understood, but it may be linked to genetic factors, trauma, or certain health conditions like diabetes or liver disease. Symptoms typically include pain or discomfort in the foot, especially when walking or standing for extended periods. The lumps may gradually increase in size, leading to difficulty in movement or wearing shoes. While the condition is generally not harmful, it can cause significant discomfort. If you lump the sole of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide effective relief and treatment solutions.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors 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 Bangor, Gilbert, and Bethlehem, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone due to prolonged stress, inflammation, or repetitive strain. They often form in response to plantar fasciitis, as the body deposits calcium in an attempt to repair chronic microtears in the fascia. While many heel spurs cause no symptoms, others lead to pain, especially during walking or standing. Calcaneal spurs, which form on the calcaneus, or heel bone, are one of the most common types. Risk factors include high-impact activities, obesity, flat feet, and wearing unsupportive footwear. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation with stretching, orthotics, and supportive shoes. If you have a heel spur and it is causing pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment solutions.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our offices located in Bangor, Gilbert, and Bethlehem, PA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Lower limb salvage focuses on saving an at-risk leg or foot from limb loss due to severe injuries, infections, or complications from conditions like diabetes or peripheral artery disease. The goal is to restore functionality, preserve mobility, and improve quality of life while minimizing pain and complications. This task requires a multidisciplinary approach and often involves advanced techniques such as wound debridement, skin grafts, vascular procedures, and reconstructive surgery. Custom orthotics, braces, or special footwear may also be used to offload pressure and prevent further damage. Early intervention is critical, as untreated infections or poor circulation can escalate quickly. Lower limb salvage is a highly personalized process that considers each patient’s unique circumstances, focusing on long-term outcomes and independence. If you or a loved one are at risk, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your medical team to explore the best treatment options for preserving limb health and mobility.

Diabetic Limb Salvage

Diabetic limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have a foot ulcer and diabetes, consult with one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Diabetic Limb Salvage?

Diabetic limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot, that has an infected ulcer, from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Amputation has been found to lead to higher mortality rates. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

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

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on your feet, often between the toes, however, there is also a moccasin variety that affects the bottom of the feet. It is caused by dermatophytes, fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty shoes or locker rooms. The condition is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with infected surfaces or people. Common symptoms of athlete's foot include itching, burning, peeling, and redness. In more severe cases, the skin may crack, blister, or become painful. It can also spread to the toenails or other areas of the body if left untreated. Treatment typically involves antifungal creams or powders, which help eliminate the infection. Keeping your feet dry and wearing breathable shoes are also key to preventing reinfection. In stubborn cases, a podiatrist may prescribe stronger antifungal medications or recommend a more tailored treatment plan. If you are experiencing symptoms of athlete's foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Bangor Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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