From the Guidelines
Home management of plantar fibromas should focus on reducing pressure and discomfort, with initial treatment options including open-backed shoes, heel lifts or orthoses, NSAIDs, decreased activity, stretching exercises, and weight loss (if indicated) 1. When managing plantar fibromas at home, it's essential to prioritize comfort and reduce inflammation.
- Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times daily to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Use over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen to manage pain and inflammation, as recommended by the american college of foot and ankle surgeons 1.
- Wear supportive shoes with cushioned insoles and consider using orthotic inserts with a cutout around the fibroma to reduce pressure on the nodule.
- Perform stretching exercises for the plantar fascia, such as toe stretches and calf stretches, 2-3 times daily for 30 seconds each, to relieve tension.
- Massage the area with a tennis ball or foam roller for 5 minutes daily to improve flexibility. It's crucial to note that local injections of corticosteroids are not recommended for initial treatment 1, and if the fibroma grows larger, becomes more painful, or interferes with daily activities despite home management, consultation with a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist is necessary for additional treatment options.
From the Research
Plantar Fibroma Management at Home
There are limited studies that specifically focus on the management of plantar fibroma at home. However, some studies suggest the following:
- Conservative treatment strategies, such as steroid injections, verapamil, radiation therapy, extracorporeal shock wave therapy, tamoxifen, and collagenase, may be effective in managing plantar fibromatosis 2, 3.
- Orthotics, both prefabricated and custom fitted, may reduce pain and improve function in adults with acute plantar fasciitis, which is a related condition 4.
- Intralesional steroid injections may be an alternative to surgery in patients with plantar fibromatosis 5.
- Conservative therapies, such as injections, shockwave ablation, radiation, and/or surgery, may be required as symptoms progress 6.
Home-Based Treatment Options
Some potential home-based treatment options for plantar fibroma include:
- Using orthotics or shoe inserts to reduce pressure on the affected area 4.
- Applying ice or heat to the affected area to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Stretching and exercising the foot and ankle to improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.
- Using over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to manage pain and inflammation.
Important Considerations
It is essential to note that plantar fibroma is a rare and benign condition, but it can cause significant pain and disability if left untreated. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment 2, 3, 6.