Bump on Foot
Bump on the foot are bony projections that can occur anywhere on the foot. They can be a natural enlargement of a foot bone, or they can be an extra bone. They can be asymptomatic (without pain) or symptomatic (painful). If they are not painful, they can usually be accommodated by shoe gear.
Causes
There are a few causes of bumps or prominence on the outside of the foot. Some of these are just normal anatomy; others are due to abnormal processes. Starting from the fifth toe and working back to the heel:
A common prominence on the fifth toe is due to the formation of a hammertoe. A hammertoe is a structural deformity of the fifth toe causing the joint in the toe to become prominent. Pressure from shoes will cause a thickening of the skin. On occasion, this can become painful making it difficult to wear a closed shoe. Treatment consists of trimming the thick skin or padding the area to reduce the pressure from the shoe.
Just behind the fifth toe, at the joint where the toe connects to the foot, a prominence can develop. This is called a Tailors bunion. It is caused by the abnormal function of the foot and can be slowly progressive. Some people naturally have an enlargement in this area. Shoe pressure can make the area painful and at times cause a bursa to form. A bursa is a sack of inflamed tissue that occurs over a bony prominence in response to excessive pressure or friction. The bursa is spongy to the touch and can be very painful. Padding the area is also useful to reduce the pressure from the shoes. Selecting the appropriate shoe can also be helpful.
Gout
A rare occurrence of gout can also occur in this area. This condition usually presents with a sudden onset of pain and swelling in the area.
Piezogenic papules
Small, soft bumps can be observed around the fat pad of the heel when a person stands. These small, soft bumps are usually found in groups. They are called Piezogenic papules and represent herniations of fat from the heel fat pad. They are rarely painful and no treatment is necessary.
Inclusion Cyst
Another bump seen on the side of the heel is called an inclusion cyst. This bump appears as an elevated, soft mass which is often callused on is surface. These are caused by minor puncture wounds or from prolonged pressure or friction to the area by shoe gear. Padding the area to reduce friction may be of some temporary benefit in painful situations.
Treatment
If you have a bump on your foot give us a call and we will glad to help you. If you are experiencing pain or noticing a change in your feet you should seek medical care right away. Early care can help prevent the condition from worsening. Contact Podiatry Group of Georgia today to schedule your appointment or book you appointment online.
Call Our Marietta, Georgia Office Today at 404-806-3731 or Book your appointment online now!