Plantar fibromatosis is a benign, locally aggressive process characterized by the development of fibrous nodules in the plantar aponeurosis. The disorder has been likened to Dupuytren's contracture of the plantar aponeurosis. The condition is often disabling and surgically challenging. The fibroblastic proliferation can infiltrate the adjacent nerves and cause intractable pain. Amputation is sometimes the only means of relief.
Diagnosis depends on identification of a lesion continuous with the plantar fascia.
MRI can differentiate plantar fibrosis from plantar fibromatosis. Plantar fibrosis appears as a poorly defined focus of fibrous tissue, often beneath the metatarsal heads. Sesamoiditis and sesamoid stress fracture. Many athletes pay scant regard to this bone and have broken what was thought to be unbreakable. The sesamoids act as a mechanical lever to increase the power of flexion at the metatarsophalangeal joint.