What is Ledderhose disease?

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

Symptoms of Ledderhose disease

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

Causes for Leddderhose disease

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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Diagnosing Ledderhose disease

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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Treatment options for Ledderhose disease

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

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.²When 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.²Your 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

Review Date: October 2024

Prof Jarad Martin

MBChB BSc PhD DMed, FRANZCR GAustMS

Radiation Oncologist

References

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.

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Disclaimer:

This website is provided for information purposes only. Nothing on this website is intended to be used as medical advice, or to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. It should not be used as a substitute for your own health professional's advice. Any medical procedure or treatment carries risks. Before proceeding with treatment, you should discuss the risks and benefits of the treatment with an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Individual treatment outcomes and experiences will vary.

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