Finding a lump on the side of your foot can be disturbing. Common causes of lumps include injuries, ganglion cysts, bursitis, and plantar fibromas. An injury to the foot may result in the formation of a lump, along with swelling and bruising. These symptoms will normally subside once the injury heals. Ganglion cysts are benign growths with a jelly-like consistency. They normally do not cause pain unless they rub against a shoe or hit a nerve. They can be drained by a podiatrist. Bursitis is the inflammation of a fluid sac, called a bursa. It may be the result of overuse or repetitive stress. Bursitis can be quite painful. Plantar fibromas usually form on the arch of the foot, but sometimes are found on the side. Also benign, these growths have a more solid texture than ganglion cysts. The cause is not known, but they can be removed. While any of these lumps are generally non threatening, it is suggested that any growth that develops on the side of the foot be checked out by a podiatrist who can examine it and offer treatment options.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Centers for Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Merrillville, Portage, Michigan City/LaPorte, and Schererville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
