Question
Hi,

Around 12 weeks ago i noticed a lump appearing on the side of my foot which was and still is very painful to walk on. The small lump is only really noticeable when pressure is applied however the main lump that can be seen im persuming it is swelling around the lump. Throughout the 12 weeks i have noticed the lump to be growing in size more across my foot rather than outwards. Every so often, occuring more as the days go by i am getting a kind of tingling sensation going up the side of my heel/foot as if something is pressing on the nerve. I also get a strong burning sensation that is rather painful that shoots up the side of the heel and down to my toes on some occasions. The burning sensations are not always there and comes in spouts. I have seen a podiatrist and i have recently had an MRI scan I now have to wait 2 more weeks for the results and the pain seems to be getting worse. Can you help me resolve this matter as it is affeting my studies as a student nurse. Thank you.

Answer
Hi Sarah,

It does sound like there is something compressing the nerve based on your symptoms.  There may be a soft tissue mass such as a lipoma.  To stop the pain and swelling, ice is effective.  However, there will be nothing that you can do until the MRI results give you the answer.  If there is a mass it may need to be removed from the heel.

Sincerely,

Marc Katz, DPM
Tampa, FL
Advanced Podiatry
www.thetampapodiatrist.com
www.tampacryosurgery.com

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