When was the last time you worried about getting a tumor on your foot? Chances are, you probably didn’t even know you could get a tumor on your foot. Unfortunately, your feet are just as prone to getting tumors as the rest of your body. Let’s take a look at the most common types of foot tumors and how they are typically treated.
Some people think that all tumors are cancerous, but a lot of types of tumors are benign (non-cancerous) instead of malignant (cancerous). Fortunately, a lot of foot tumors are benign growths that can be easily removed.
Types of Common Foot Tumors
- Ganglion Cysts Ganglion cysts are small sacs of fluid that typically form on the top of the foot. They are easy to detect because they form in protruding lumps. Ganglion cysts are typically painful to the touch but are benign so they aren’t necessarily dangerous. However, most people choose to get ganglion cysts removed if they are painful and to make the foot look aesthetically pleasing. Ganglion cysts are commonly removed by draining them, injecting steroids to shrink them, or through surgery.
- Giant Cell Tumors Giant cell tumors are benign growths that form on top of the foot, on the toes, or on the sole of the foot. Giant cell tumors are painful to the touch and can interfere with the tendons in the feet which can cause pain and difficulty in walking. Giant cell tumors are commonly removed through surgery.
- Plantar Fibromas Another type of benign tumor that forms in the foot is called plantar fibroma. This tumor forms on the plantar fascia muscle of the foot. The plantar fascia is fibrous tissue that runs across and connects the toes of the foot to the heel bone. Plantar fibroma tumors may be difficult to see but can be felt when you walk. The most common symptom is pain when you put pressure on them while walking. Plantar fibromas are typically removed through surgery.
- Mucous Cysts Mucous cysts are firm lumps that typically form behind the toenail joint when a joint capsule weakens. They are not inherently painful but can cause pain depending on where they are located on the toes. Mucous cysts are removed through cryotherapy (freezing) or through surgery.
If you have a lump anywhere on your foot, it’s important to get it checked out by a podiatrist as soon as possible. While the most common foot tumors are benign, some can be malignant. Malignant tumors need treatment immediately to prevent the cancer from spreading. Make sure to regularly examine your feet for any abnormalities and see a podiatrist if you notice anything unusual.
Foot Care in Cincinnati, Ohio
If you are in the need of a qualified and highly experienced podiatrist for your foot care needs, consider the experts at Cincinnati Foot & Ankle Care. They have a great group of podiatrists available to treat you in 18 convenient locations in southwest Ohio. To make an appointment, call the location most convenient to you or request an appointment online.
