Review Date: October 2024
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Ledderhose disease, also called plantar fibromatosis or Dupuytren’s of the foot, is a benign thickening of the connective tissue (fascia) in the sole of the foot.2-4
For most people, the main symptom is a slow-growing lump in the arch of the foot.2,3 It typically starts as a small lump and may not affect quality of life for some time.2,3 However, over time, the nodule may grow larger and can start to cause tenderness and pain, especially when standing or walking.2-4
It is generally seen in middle-aged or elderly people and occurs more frequently in men than women.1,3 Some people can experience symptoms in both feet.1,3,4
The main cause of Ledderhose disease remains uncertain.1 There are several associated conditions, such as Dupuytren’s Disease and Peyronie’s Disease.
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Ledderhose disease is diagnosed based on a patient’s history and a physical examination. Sometimes imaging, such as an MRI or ultrasound, and/or a biopsy may be performed for confirmation.1
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You should discuss treatment options with your referring doctor or specialist. Treatment recomendations depend on a number of factors including disease severity.2,3 The primary aim of treatment is to regain quality of life, which includes increased mobility, pain reduction and return to normal function where possible.2 Treatment options can include:2,3
- Steroid injections
- Orthodics
- Extracorporeal shock wave therapy
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
Assessment
An initial assessment and discussion are important to help understand the uncertainties and alternative treatment options.
At the assessment, your specialist will discuss whether radiotherapy might be helpful for your condition, as well as any side-effects you may experience.
Note: You will need a referral from a GP or specialist for an assessment.
Treatment
Radiation therapy is one treatment option for Ledderhouse disease.2 When used, its purpose is to try and prevent the worsening of symptoms as well as improve mobility and reduce pain.2
Research has shown that radiation therapy for Ledderhose will see 74% of people achieve pain relief.2 Your doctor can offer more specific details around how the therapy works, how the radiation is delivered and how long it takes, as well as any risks or potential side-effects.
Following the completion of radiation therapy treatment, please speak to your doctor directly regarding any concerns or side effects that you may experience.
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Content reviewed by
- Meyers, A. L., & Marquart, M. J. (2024). Plantar fibromatosis. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. Retrieved July 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557674/
- de Haan, A., van Nes, J. G., Werker, P. M., Langendijk, J. A., & Steenbakkers, R. J. (2022). Radiotherapy for patients with Ledderhose disease: Long-term effects, side effects and patient-rated outcome. Radiotherapy and Oncology, 168, 83-88. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.radonc.2023.109718
- Young, J. R., Sternbach, S., Willinger, M., Hutchinson, I. D., & Rosenbaum, A. J. (2018). The etiology, evaluation, and management of plantar fibromatosis. Orthopedic research and reviews, 11, 1-7. https://doi.org/10.2147/ORR.S154289
- Akdag, O., Yildiran, G., Karamese, M., & Tosun, Z. (2016). Dupuytren-like contracture of the foot: Ledderhose disease. The Surgery Journal, 2(03), e102-e104.
