Plantar fibromatosis, also known as Ledderhose disease, is a condition in which pain nodules of scar-like tissue develop on the bottoms of the feet, most often in the arch area. The plantar fascia, the supporting ligament of the arch may form small tears which heal with scar tissue. That scar tissue growth can be overly aggressive causing painful lumps to occur.
The disease was first described by a German surgeon, Dr. Georg Ledderhose in 1894. He initially called it plantar fibromatosis but the name Ledderhose Disease or Morbus Ledderhose which credited him with its description became popular later.
The exact cause of Ledderhose Disease is not known but risk factors have been listed to include diabetes, family history of the disease, epilepsy and palmar fibromatosis. Our experience suggests that the only consistent risk factor on this list is palmar fibromatosis or Dupuytren's contracture which occurs on the palms of the hand.
Treatment options have been limited and surgical treatment of the nodules often recommended. The recurrence rate after excision is unacceptably high. Dr. Davis has developed an alternative minimally invasive treatment which involves use of specific enzymes which break down scar tissue. Dr. Davis also developed a website that discusses plantar fibromatosis: http://www.ledderhosedisease.com.
For more information about treatment for podiatry issues in San Antonio, contact Dr. Ed Davis today.
Dr. Davis is a Foot & Ankle specialist and Podiatrist, serving the 78258 San Antonia area. Call us to book your appointment or request your appointment online today.
