Morbus Ledderhose

Or plantar fibromatosis

The Morbus Ledderhose is a benign overgrowth of connective tissue (plantar fascia) under the skin of the foot soles. 

This thickening and hardening is similar to the more common finger distortions on the hand, the so-called Dupuytren contracture. A relapsing and lasting disease over the course of several years is typical. 

The disease causes knots, swellings and strands. Patients often have irritation, inflammation and pain and can often walk only poorly.

Treatment

The treatment first consists of conservative measures such as

• special inserts
• X-ray irradiation
• infiltration
• shock wave therapy

More recently, attempts have been made with injections that dissolve connective tissue (collagenase).

Surgery

The surgery of Morbus Ledderhose is the last resort, unfortunately even then the disease can sometimes not be coped with, as the swellings occur again.

The further treatment after surgery is lengthy and the foot should not be loaded. The patients walk for about 3-4 weeks supported by forearm crutches. Generally valid results cannot be mentioned.