10 Causes of Lumps on the Soles of the Feet from Calluses to Tumors

Bumisuka.com – 10 Causes of Lumps on the Soles of the Feet from Calluses to Tumors. Lumps on the soles of the feet can be caused by various causes. Starting from infections, joint problems, and skin conditions. This often causes pain and discomfort with standing and walking.

Here are a list of possible causes of lumps on the soles of the feet and treatment options.

1. Uneven weight distribution

If certain bones in the foot are misaligned, this can lead to uneven distribution of weight. Sometimes, the long bones behind the toes (metatarsals) become misaligned. It affects the way weight is distributed across the ball of the foot (the padded part of the sole of the foot between the toes and the arch, under the heads of the metatarsal bones) when a person walks.

Uneven weight distribution across the feet means some areas absorb more pressure than others. This can cause calluses to form on the ball of the foot.

Lumps due to uneven distribution of body weight tend to occur in people with diabetes. If a person with diabetes develops bumps or calluses on the feet, these should be monitored carefully and consulted with a doctor. Otherwise, the lump can cause an ulcer. Diabetic foot ulcers are the most common lower extremity complication for people with diabetes.

The use of molded insoles or orthotics can help with bumps caused by uneven weight distribution. This helps take the pressure off the ball of the foot.

2. Calluses

Calluses are areas of hardened skin that develop on areas of the body that are subjected to repeated pressure, including the bottoms of the feet. Calluses can develop from wearing tight shoes, unequal weight distribution due to high or low arches of the feet, and from walking barefoot, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association.

According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, eczema can be treated by exfoliating the hardened skin and moisturizing it to reduce skin dryness. Avoiding tight shoes and walking barefoot can also reduce the likelihood of developing calluses, as well as using orthotic insoles to improve foot alignment. Surgery to correct the deformity and prevent the callus from returning may also be necessary.

3. Hallux limitus

Reported by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), limited movement of the big toe joint (hallux limitus) can cause pain at the base of the big toe joint due to stiffness and increased pressure. This lack of movement can lead to the formation of bone spurs. This can result in a lump on the top of the toe or an enlargement of the bone on the side of the big toe (bunion). Unbalanced movement and pressure across the joints of the feet can also cause calluses to form on the soles of the feet.

Resting the foot, applying ice, and stretching the big toe can help reduce pain and increase the mobility of the big toe joint. Orthotics or shoe inserts may be inserted into the shoe to help improve foot alignment.

If joint movement is severely restricted, a surgical procedure called a cheilectomy may be performed to remove the bone spur inside the big toe joint to improve mobility, as reported by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS).

4. Dyshidrosis

Dyshidrosis or dyshidrotic eczema is a skin condition that causes small, fluid-filled blisters on the hands and feet, which causes the skin to crack, flake, and peel. These blisters can be itchy and painful, but usually go away with time. The exact cause of dyshidrosis is not fully known.

To manage this condition, you are advised to avoid exposure to irritants such as metals and harsh chemicals. Doctors can treat the blisters with topical steroids to reduce inflammation.

5. Plantar warts

Plantar warts usually do not require treatment. However, if it bleeds, changes color, or causes marked discomfort, see a doctor. The doctor can determine whether a plantar wart needs to be removed.

There are many ways to remove warts. According to a 2006 study in Clinical Medicine & Research, cryotherapy, which involves using liquid nitrogen to remove warts, has the highest quality of clinical evidence to support its effectiveness.

6. Plantar fibromas

Plantar fibroma is a benign tumor that forms on the arch of the foot. If multiple nodules form, the condition is known as plantar fibromatosis or Ledderhose disease.

According to a 2021 report in the journal The Foot, plantar fibromas can swell, causing painful tightening of the plantar fascia (the band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toe), which increases with weight-bearing activity.

Steroid injections into the foot can help reduce swelling and inflammation while shoe orthotics can help improve alignment of the foot and ankle. Surgery to remove the growth may be necessary if it causes significant pain and difficulty walking, as described by ACFAS.

7. Bursitis

The bursa is a natural cushion between the bones and soft tissues found throughout the body. The exchange bearings are lubricated. They relieve friction that occurs during your activities.

The synovial membrane accommodates the lubrication of the bursa. Bursitis occurs after an injury. The membrane becomes inflamed and swells with extra synovial fluid.

In this case, you may notice swelling on or near the big toe. Immediately see a doctor if the swelling is accompanied by fever and redness or the skin feels warm. This is a sign of infection.

Avoid activities that make the pain worse. You can also rest your feet, compress the area, and take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain relievers.

If it doesn’t improve, your doctor may want to try corticosteroids or physical therapy. Surgery is often considered a last resort.

8. Haglund’s deformity

Haglund’s deformity occurs when a lump at the back of the heel bone forms under the Achilles tendon. The lump can become irritated and painful when it rubs against the shoe. This condition can be difficult to diagnose because it has similar symptoms to Achilles tendonosis.

According to a 2016 report in the journal Cureus, Haglund’s deformity can be treated by avoiding tight-fitting footwear, using heel pads to reduce friction when wearing shoes, getting steroid injections, taking anti-inflammatory medications, cold compresses, and exercising the calf muscles. Severe cases may require surgery to remove the irritated heel bone.

9. Cyst

Benign cysts or soft tissue tumors, such as lipomas, may develop spontaneously on the soles of the feet. These are generally harmless.

According to the AAOS, benign cysts or soft tissue tumors usually do not require treatment, but may need to be removed surgically if they are pressing on nearby nerves or ligaments.

10. Synovial sarcoma

While cysts are benign, synovial sarcomas are malignant. That is, synovial sarcoma is dangerous and can spread to other parts of the body. Cysts and sarcomas may mimic each other at first, although sarcomas are rare.

Sarcomas may not be visible at first. However, as it grows, you may notice lumps and swelling on your feet. You may feel pain and numbness or may experience decreased range of motion. The cause of sarcoma is unknown, but it is believed to be hereditary.

Malignant tumors are most often removed by surgery. The doctor may also suggest chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

There are several different causes of lumps on the soles of the feet. Understanding it can help determine what’s causing it and take the best course of action. Talk to your doctor for an accurate diagnosis. The doctor can recommend the right treatment and prevent the lump from happening again in the future.