The tissue that supports the foot's arch, the plantar fascia, is harmed by Ledderhose disease, sometimes referred to as plantar fibromatosis. Small, benign nodules that grow on the plantar fascia as a result of the condition cause pain, discomfort, and reduced mobility.
Ledderhose disease is a very uncommon ailment that can impair foot movement and create discomfort. The sickness is thought to be a hereditary disorder that runs in families, despite the fact that the precise etiology of the illness is unknown. The main sign of the condition is the growth of nodules on the plantar fascia, which can make the foot painful and inflexible. Both conservative therapies like rest and physical therapy and more radical ones like surgery are available as treatment choices. Ledderhose disease cannot be prevented, however maintaining excellent foot health and minimizing strain on the plantar fascia will help lower the likelihood of developing foot issues.
We will look at the causes, symptoms, and potential treatments for Ledderhose disease in this post.
Causes
Ledderhose disease's specific etiology is unclear, however it is thought to be a hereditary disorder that runs in families. The plantar fascia overgrows with fibrous tissue, which causes nodules to form as a symptom of the condition. A family history of the illness, being a man, and being older than 40 are all risk factors for developing Ledderhose disease.
Symptoms
The growth of nodules on the plantar fascia is the main sign of Ledderhose disease. Initially, these nodules are normally harmless, but as they spread and enlarge, they may become uncomfortable. The nodules, which are palpable beneath the skin of the foot, may be uncomfortable when one walks or stands still for a long time.
Other signs of Ledderhose disease in addition to the nodules include:
- Decreased foot flexibility and mobility
- Stiffness and constriction in the foot's arch
- Pain while putting on specific footwear
Diagnosis
A physical exam and medical history are often used to identify Ledderhose disease. The doctor will do a physical examination to check for any nodules on the plantar fascia and see how well the foot can move. Sometimes, imaging tests like an X-ray or MRI are used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other possible causes of foot pain.
Treatment
When treating Ledderhose illness, the severity of the symptoms is frequently taken into account. In mild cases, conservative treatments like rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory drugs may be suggested to control pain and swelling. Physical therapy and stretching exercises may also help with making the foot more flexible and less stiff.
More intensive therapies may be required in more severe situations. Injections of corticosteroids may be administered to treat the afflicted area's pain and inflammation. In some circumstances, surgery may be necessary to remove the nodules and regain the foot's mobility. Ledderhose disease can be treated surgically using a range of methods, including open surgery and minimally invasive treatments.
Prevention
Ledderhose sickness is thought to be a hereditary disorder, so there is no surefire method to stop it from occurring. But keeping your feet healthy and avoiding activities that put too much strain on your plantar fascia will help lower your risk of getting the condition. Ledderhose disease can be prevented, among other foot diseases, by keeping a healthy weight, wearing correctly fitted shoes with excellent arch support, and staying away from high-impact sports.