Is plantar fibromatosis cancer?

No. Plantar fibromatosis is a benign condition composed of excess collagen and fibroblasts, not malignant cells. However, any new foot mass should be evaluated by a podiatrist to confirm the diagnosis and rule out soft tissue sarcoma, which can mimic fibromatosis.

Will plantar fibromatosis go away on its own?

Plantar fibromatosis rarely resolves spontaneously. Some nodules remain stable for years, while others slowly enlarge. Conservative treatments like topical verapamil and offloading orthotics reduce symptoms and may slow growth. Surgical excision is the only way to remove the nodule, though recurrence is possible.

What is the recurrence rate after plantar fibroma surgery?

Recurrence depends on technique: local excision 50-60%, wide local excision 20-30%, subtotal fasciectomy 10-15%, complete fasciectomy under 10%. Wider margins reduce recurrence but involve longer recovery. Your surgeon balances these factors for your specific situation.

Is plantar fibromatosis related to Dupuytren's contracture?

Yes. Both belong to the superficial fibromatosis family and share genetic pathways. Approximately 10-65% of patients with Ledderhose disease also have or develop Dupuytren's contracture in their hands. Check your palms for firm cords or nodules.

Does insurance cover plantar fibromatosis treatment?

Most PPO plans cover evaluation, diagnostic ultrasound, corticosteroid injections, custom orthotics, and surgical excision of plantar fibromas. Medicare Part B covers these services when medically necessary. Balance Foot & Ankle accepts BCBS and most Michigan insurers. Call (810) 206-1402.

When should I see a podiatrist?

You should see a podiatrist for any persistent foot or ankle pain lasting more than a few days, difficulty walking, numbness or tingling, wounds that won't heal, changes in skin color or temperature, or structural deformities. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified podiatrist serving SE Michigan with same-day appointments available. Call 810-206-1402.

Does Dr. Biernacki accept insurance?

Balance Foot & Ankle accepts most major insurance plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, United Healthcare, Cigna, Medicare, and many others. Contact our office at 810-206-1402 to verify your specific coverage. We also offer affordable self-pay options.

What should I expect at my first podiatry appointment?

Your first visit includes a comprehensive evaluation with Dr. Biernacki including medical history review, physical examination, biomechanical assessment, and any necessary diagnostic imaging (X-rays are available in-office). You'll receive a diagnosis, treatment plan, and same-day treatment when possible. Most initial visits take approximately 30-45 minutes.

Plantar Fibromatosis (Ledderhose Disease): Arch Nodules & Treatment

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Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

Affiliate Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links to products we recommend. If you purchase through these links, Balance Foot & Ankle may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products we use with our patients.

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a double board-certified podiatrist and foot & ankle surgeon at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Southeast Michigan. With over a decade of clinical experience, he specializes in heel pain, bunions, diabetic foot care, sports injuries, and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a member of the APMA and ACFAS, and his patient education content on MichiganFootDoctors.com and YouTube has reached over one million views.

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