Bumps can manifest as a wide variety of different pathologies. Usually depending on where they are in the foot can help que a surgeon to what it likely is. Ultimately, a biopsy or advanced imaging is the sure way to know exactly what the bump is. Often, these bumps are benign, but it is important to see your foot and ankle specialist, such as Dr. Nelson, to ensure a proper workup and evaluation to determine the next steps and treatment options.

                         Bumps on the toes or around a big joint are most likely to be what is called a ganglion cyst. These are outpouchings of synovial fluid, or joint lubricant. These may happen spontaneously or due to excessive pressure to the joint from stress or arthritis. There are several treatment options depending on pain and severity. These options include wait and watch, injection or aspiration, or surgical excision.

                         Bumps on the bottom of your foot or on the arch are likely plantar fibromas. This is rather benign as well, just like a ganglion. These can often time be quite painful, as they are in the in-step and can hurt when pressure is put on them during walking. Treatment options are similar with a wait and watch approach, offloading, or injection. Surgical intervention varies on a case-to-case basis and does come with some inherent risks such as recurrence or scar adhesions.

                         Other bumps throughout the foot that feel like a pouch of fat are usually what we call lipomas. Again, these are benign but can be quite painful depending on where they are located. Usually these require a wait and watch but other similar options to ganglions and plantar fibromas can be discussed as well.

Come see your foot and ankle specialist, Dr. Garrett Nelson, to have your lumps and bumps evaluated!