Use this search box to search our site


Not what you're looking for? CLICK HERE INSTEAD



The response to the question below was authored by Marc Mitnick DPM

Large knot on achilles tendon, painful lumps on top and side of foot

by Erin
(Dallas, PA)

top of right foot

top of right foot

Dear Dr. Mitnick,


I will apologize for the length of my post in advance.

I am a 35 yr old female, 5'6 tall and weigh 145 pounds. I was dxed with Crohn's Disease at 22 yrs of age and Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis at age 26. I'm currently on a host of medications among them Prednisone- and have been steroid dependent since my dx of CD. I'm prone to unusual manifestations as I've been told by several doctors. A very brief medical history before I explain my problem.

This past August (10'), I woke up one morning and my entire left ankle and foot were swollen. It was painful to stand and walk. I waited three days before making an appt. with my DO thinking it would go away. She said I probably just irritated it playing soccer with my son and sent me for an x-ray and bloodwork as precautions. Both came back normal. When the swelling and pain got worse, I went back again and ultrasound. Again came back normal so I made an appt with a podiatrist. The pain and swelling got so bad that I was crawling on my knees to get around my house and working half days at work.

When I finally made it to the podiatrist, he fitted me for a walking boot and said he thought it was an inflammatory arthritis related to my CD. He told me to ice and elevate it as much as possible.

While the boot brought relief temporarily, my ankle became red and hot to the touch however repeated bloodwork came back normal again. At my family docs for a different problem, I showed my ankle to her and she said I had Cellulitis and prescribed an antibiotic. I called the pod for a second opinion and he said to hold off because he didn't think Cellulitis was an accurate dx. I then had an ultrasound which showed severe inflammation around the ankle joint and a ganlion cyst about the size of a marble. The pod withdrew fluid to check for infection and then injected a shot to reduce inflmmation. It didn't help.

Three days later I'm back at the pods and he admits he's never seen anything like this before. My ankle has red splotches that
seem to be traveling to different parts of my foot and there is more redness going up the back of my achilles tendon. I then take a tapering dose of prednisone- 60mg and downward which reduces the inflmmation significantly but does not fix the problem.

Three weeks ago I went for a second opinion at the Rothman Clinic in Philadelphia where the doctor told me I have Posterior Tibialis Tendonitis and fitted me with an aircast and told me I'm only to take it off when sleeping or showering. Obviously I do not have a medical background but I don't agree with his dx. I now have a huge knot in the back of my Achilles tendon that swells by the end of the day to the size of a golfball as well as small hard and painful lumps on the top of my outer ankle and a small hard lump on the bottom of my foot near the second and third toes. To top it off, now the instep of my right foot has developed a red hard lump.

I went back to my local pod and he is sending me for a second MRI to rule out an Achilles tendon tear but I don't think that is what it is. I'm at my wits end. I wake up during the night with pain in both feet and can't find a comfortable spot. Please see most recent photos of my ankles attached.

Any advice you have would be more than appreciated.

Kindly,
Erin

Hi Erin,
Unfortunately the photos are of little value to me. One thing I would suggest is if you have all these "knots" for no apparent reason, why not have a needle biopsy to see what they are.
In my opinion if there are multiple nodules chances are they reflect a systemic problem rather than a local problem.
You mention that you have had an ultrasound, I assume that was to rule of phlebitis as that was my first thought as I read through your explanation.
I would also suggest you speak with your doctor who is in charge of your Chron's disease to see if he or she is aware of any manifestation of the disease that may occur in the extremities.
Marc Mitnick DPM

Comments for Large knot on achilles tendon, painful lumps on top and side of foot

Average Rating starstarstarstarstar

Click here to add your own comments

Apr 03, 2019
Rating
starstarstarstarstar
Same issues
by: Becky

I am having the exact same issues, but no one has any answers. I'm going to see a podiatrist tomorrow. If he can give me any answers, I'll post back, but I feel like this is going to be a long process.

Jul 01, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar
Help please
by: Kelsey

I have the same bump on my foot since my sprained ankle please help it hurts

Apr 04, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar
What was it???
by: Ankle/Foot pain AND Crohn's

Did you find out what it is? I'm trying to figure out what's wrong with my foot OUT OF THE BLUE, and I saw your post and it's like what just started with my foot AND I have Crohn's too! I would love to know what ever happened!

Click here to add your own comments

Return to Ask the doctor.


ADDITIONAL REFERENCES

Mayo Clinic

Johns Hopkins Medicine

MedlinePlus

Arthritis Foundation

University of Rochester Medical Center

Harvard Health

Drugs.com

American Academy of Pediatrics

Penn State Medical Center

National Institutes of Health

Columbia University Department of Rehabilitation

ScienceDirect

Stanford Health Care

Illinois Bone and Joint Institute

Mount Sinai Hospital

Institute for Chronic Pain

University of Florida Health

American Family Physician

Cedars-Sinai

University of Maryland Medical Center





MY PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS
(items I prescribe in the office)


Orthotics for multiple types of foot pain
best buy in a pre-made orthotic
click link below


SuperStepOrthotics


Orthotics for heel and arch pain for those who must wear dress shoes
click link below


redithotics


HONESTe Online Member Seal
Click to verify - Before you buy!






I've been doing some aggressive research lately (it's how I found your incredible website) and realize now that my symptoms are not consistant with the diagnosis.

Jennifer

Hunterville, NC
….after reviewing your amazing site (great for the avg. jill). So thank you very much!!!

Liesbeth

NY
I am really, really impressed with your plain-speak explanations for the various conditions.

Jacqueline

NJ
This was an extremely helpful site. I have an appointment on the 18th and your info. Was right on target…..

Jack

Fla
A well organized site containing much information written in a manner that the average reader can comprehend.

Jean

Ontario, Canada
I found your website and articles most interesting.

Andrew

Fla.
Thank you for a quick response. I think your site is the best information site on foot pain and I have viewed many.

Judy

(location unknown)
I came to your website, footspecialist.net via www.foot-pain explained .com which I think is also your website? I thought explanations for different types of problems were well addressed and thoughtfully stated for the patient in mind.

L.W.

New York
You have an amazing and extremely informative site. I enjoyed looking through all of the data and stats.

Yvette

Memphis, TN
Thanks again so much for the information in the article. Very interesting.

Anna

Scotland
Great article. I have had plantar fasciitis since I was in high school……..

J. Simmons

(location unknown)
Dear Dr. Mitnick, The orthotics arrived four days ago and I slipped them into my shoes immediately. I was skeptical as to the usefulness of the item, they really didn't look very exotic. I have to say though, after using them for just four days, I have experienced grand relief from my foot pain. Even the very first day, I was able to do a lot of work while on my feet with at least a 75% reduction of pain. It has only gotten better every day, and I go nowhere without my shoes with the orthotics. I had been experiencing extreme heel and sole pain for about six months and had to take extended breaks off my feet many times a day as well as regular doses of Ibuprofen. Since getting the orthotics, my life has returned to normal and I feel good again. Just wanted to say thanks for the recommendation for a very effective item, I had no idea what a change this item could affect.

Yours truly,

J.C. Forbes

Tennessee
Thanks for the Response, you hit it on the head.

Steve

Redondo Beach, CA
Thank you for your time and expertise in answering my question…..

LH

(location unknown)
First, thanks for putting together this website. Its the most informative site I have found dealing with foot problems. Last June I started having pain and swelling at …….

Joe

(location unknown)
First of all, thank you for having all this useful information available in one place. I've been through most of your website and based on my research, pain and evaluations I think I've narrowed things down quite a bit.

Pete M.

(location unknown)
Thank you for the best site I have found when researching foot pain.

Glenda B.

Madison, Alabama
Thanks for replying so quickly. I was a bit concerned. I think your website is great, and chock full of info.....

Carol

Denison, TX
Dr. Marc, Thank you so much for your reply which seemed to be right on. I have researched many sites but you put me on the right path to the possible answer. My foot pain may not rule the rest of my life after all! I believe I'll make a sign that reads, "THE END IS NEAR!" Thanks Very Much,

Dawn

West lafayette, IN
Dear sir...no doubt you get positive comments re your site...May I please be added to the list of your admirers. In all of my years of web surfing I would say your site is right there with the very best. Thank you for taking the time to write the terrific info you provide and for putting things into laymen terms for us mere mortals. I pray you have much on going success and thank you again for a deed well done. As for me I did not find much help for my symptoms and will continue on my quest. Were you anywhere in the South I would make and appointment...Thanks again dear sir...m.e.

Michael E.

Tampa, Florida 33624
Hi. This is a great site! I'm a healthy middle aged woman who is in good health, but.....

Kelly

Texas
Just a wee word of thanks for your wonderful website...It is a terrific service...Thank you for providing your knowledge and help...With highest regards, m ebeling

Michael D. Ebeling

Tampa, Florida 33624


Thanks for a most interesting website, which has helped a lot.

Steve

UK


Dear Dr.Mitnick

I usually do my research on the Mayo clinic website. I think your website is the most informative site I have found when researching foot pain.

I thank you for putting together this incredible website.

Regards,

Dragica W.

Edmonton,Canada


....I have been told that it is not hard enough to be cut off. Please help, I am not sure what to do now! THANKS FOR A WONDERFUL AND VERY HELPFUL SITE!

Roxy

South Africa


You have an unusually clear, informative and well-written website for laypersons. Thank you for that.

Matthew W.

Mansfield Ctr, CT


First, I'd like to thank you for all the information that you provide on your website and the opportunity to write to you.

Steve

Placentia, California


First, I want to let you know that you have the best web site I've found related to foot issues. (The only thing I had difficulty finding was the "ask a question" page.)

Unknown

Unknown location


I received the orthotics Monday afternoon and began wearing them Tuesday. After two days I would say that I have noticed a huge improvement in the discomfort I have been experiencing. My foot feels better than it has in months.

Ric J.

Unknown location


I greatly admire someone like you who would donate and dedicate so much time and effort to helping strangers with no compensation. Truly, it is uncommonly kind. And your site is so intelligently arranged.

Ron R.

Pacific Grove, CA


I used to work for a podiatrist (front desk) back during summers in college years ago, so I know the benefits of good care. Again, I want to thank you for an EXCELLENT website. It was so great to get to your site (top of google search) and actually find all the answers I needed EASILY and QUICKLY! Clearly you put a ton of work into it and I really appreciate it.

All the best,

Victoria

Alameda, California


By the way, millions of websites could use yours as a guideline on how to organize information and make the site user-friendly. Kudos to you!

Anonymous


Thank you for your very interesting and informative site!

Anonymous




Hi. I come to your site often looking for information. It is really informative and I appreciate it very much. I have RA and have been having considerable amount of foot pain...... Dee RN


Thanks very much for the wonderful informative site.

Catherine

New Zealand


Thank You for my answer! I have been schedule for a bone density scan, allingment, and I am in the process of getting orthotics made, and checking out the natural remedies. Thank again! What a great web site!

Sincerely

Josette


Yes I want both pair of orthotics. You don't have an option of ordering 2 at one time so I had to place the order twice. Thanks. My husband likes these and wants to put them in all of his shoes. (referring to Superstep orthotics)

Cindy H.

Arizona
I searched the internet everywhere for a clear description and illustration of my symptoms/problem. https://www.foot-pain-explained.com/ was where I ended my search with answers. If I lived in Jersey (left 30 years ago) and didn't live in Florida I would definetly make an appointment with Dr. Mitnick.

Thanks, Kathy

Florida
1st of all THANKS A LOT for your great site......

Anna

Poland
Thank you so much for your response. I will let you know how I am doing if you would like. Your website is awesome!

M P

South Carolina
Hello! I want to thank you for such an informative website! I found you based on my ankle pain search and am happy to realize that there may be a relatively simple cause and solution....

Natalie

unknown location


...Thanks for your fantastic service.

Gary

Arlington, VA


Thank you so very much, that would be much appreciated. I love those insoles, by the way. (referring to Superstep orthotics)

Kelly W.

San Clemente, CA


Dr Marc is fantastic...He seems to know exactly what you are feeling with the problems you are having. I wish he was in my home town so I could go to him with my problems!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pam

location unknown


Great insights! Thanks Doc, you're the best.

Glen

location unknown


I have been experiencing foot pain of various sorts and am working to figure out what it is. I found this site and can only say BRAVO!! What an excellent site! The time it must have taken to put all this together must've been a daunting task! I am sure it has helped so many people. Thank you so very much for doing this.

Bre

location unknown


Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so much for your reply. I did let my physician know and they took an x-ray - all is well! Also, thank you for providing this wonderful site, it is very helpful with lots of useful information! I appreciate your gift of time! God bless.

anonymous




Dr. Mitnick, Thank you, you were 100% correct. The pain finally brought me to the ER. I spent 8 days in the hospital. The Doppler you spoke of was able to show that there was no pulse in that foot. This was an arterial clot that split and traveled throughout my leg. My leg was almost amputated. I am in rough shape but have all my parts intact!! You certainly know what you are talking about. Thank you for taking the time to answer. Yours Truly!

anonymous




Staying at home after hallux surgery I spend quite a lot of time seaching info useful for avoiding problems which might come back. Today I found your site and I am .... delighted it happened. It's one of the best site I found last days.

Anna

Poland




Thanks for taking time to read and answer so many questions. It is truly a public service!

Esh

Seattle, WA


I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!!

Bonnie

location unknown




Also, and importantly, just want to praise this web site. Thorough and thoughtfully presented, it certainly must be of considerable assistance to anyone with a foot problem. Terrific -- and very interesting.I trust the address comes up easily for those seeking information.

Bill

New Jersey




Thanks so much for answering my question. You've been more help to me than my own Dr. has been lately. Thanks again....I hope to be able to walk without pain someday.

Debbie

location unknown




Wow, that is exactly the information needed!!! thank you thank you thank you!!! I appreciate this help so very much from Marc Mitnick DPM. Excellent information and help to improve One's life.

Chrissy

location unknown




Thanks so much for this website Dr. Marc! It is so nice that you have this ask the doctor feature..I'm sure I'ts been helpful for alot of people. I will try what you suggested and see if it helps...thanks again!

Tracy

Evansville, IA




Dear Marc

I just want to say thank you for the quick response and the good info. I find it amazing and a super nice thing that you do here by answering medical questions at no charge.

Russ W.

location unknown




Your website is full of a lot of helpful information, and I am very impressed with the time in which you responded to my post. Thank you again for your time and consideration in your response.

-Sunny.

location unknown




Thank you very much for the information, I will consider it. Excellent web site.

Jackie

San Diego, CA




Dr. Mitnick, Just want to say thank you so very much for your quick response and very informative reply! After reading what you had to say, I called the doctor's office and was able to get in and see him the same day as my injury. Toe was x-rayed and luckily, it is not broken or fractured. Very badly bruised and will probably lose the toe nail. And although my toe and toe nail are still very black and blue and very sore, they ARE both starting to feel a little better. So again, thank you! I am so very happy that I came across your website. The service you provide is outstanding and immeasurable!

Rivi,

Albany, NY




Thank you so much for all of your advice. In searching the web for people dealing with this same issue i can tell you that you are a Knight In shining Armor! If I lived in Jersey I would gladly be your Spokesperson. Hopefully next time you hear from me it will be good news. God Bless,

Jill S.

location unknown




THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH FOR YOUR TIME AND EFFORTS, YOU ARE SO VERY APPRECIATED. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO.

Jackie

Whichita, KS




thanks again, this site is very helpful.

mark

Boston, MA




Like others have stated...This site is amazing and I am so thankful that it was created.

....Keep up what your doing. Your a life saver.

Michelle

Colorado




Thanks again for the information provided on your site. It's easy for non-medical folk to understand your writing, and helps provide better communication between patient and doctor.

annielou

Colorado


Wonderful advice

by: Anonymous

This is the best site for foot problem info.


Thank you for this information. This description fits my pain and inflammation behind my 2nd toe perfectly.

by: Max

location unknown
Again, I really appreciate that you responded to my inquiry, and that your mention of Parkinson's helped me to find my way to a diagnosis of this difficult to diagnose disease. Most patients see on average 16 doctors before they are diagnosed. I hope that you can help other people that ask for your expertise in the future.

Barb D.

Canada
I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!! I have had a fusion in my rt foot and am finally getting a little bit better......

Bonnie

location unknown
Again, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to answer my question....your an angel!

Nancie

Wisconsin
Thank you for your response. You have provided some great insight (to my question)....

Julie

location unknown
Thank-you so very much for responding so quickly and in such detail to my question!! I will give my surgeon a call today!! This website is terrific!!!! Thank-you again!

Renae

North Carolina
Many Thanks Dr Marc!
Thank you for your response. It sounds like a good plan to me. He did not cut the wart out first ...

KG

location unknown


Thanks again doc for having this website and we STILL need qualified Podiatrists in beautiful sunny Tampa Bay (Bradenton) Florida.

Bessie Mae

Florida
Dear Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so very much for taking your time to answer my question. You have greatly relieved my anxiety related to the continual tingly I feel in my feet. I will share your response with my podiatrist next week. God bless you for having this question and answer page on your website! Most gratefully,

Lynne T.

location unknown
Your webpage is excellent, I commend you on sharing your knowledge to the public.

Robert

New Jersey


Thank you. you were more detailed than what others have told me they finally called from the last xrays and my son is now in a cast for 2 weeks he did have a fracture that was not noticeable.

a mom

location unknown


I have read your website and I have to admit that I am amazed at all the information that is on here. I have learned more than the three years I have been going to several doctors that I have seen!!

Melody

Lenoir, NC


Thank you so much Doc for a quick and thorough response!

Rustam

Bellevue, WA


I cannot thank you enough for your response, opinion, and suggestions! I want you to know how much it means to me, and I'm sure everyone else who has ever asked you a question! I feel like you're a lifesaver and have empowered me to take a stronger role and stand up for myself and my feet!

Jodi

location unknown

Recent Articles

  1. Vitamin D impact on health

    Feb 06, 23 07:17 PM

    Researchers are suggesting that the effectiveness of Vitamin D in fighting and preventing disease is predicated on a persons body mass index (BMI). The thinner the person the greater the positive impa…

    Read More

  2. Foods to speed up healing

    Feb 01, 23 02:41 PM

    One of the best ways to help yourself heal faster after surgery is to eat well. Getting the proper nutrition will provide your body with the essentials it needs to promote healing. Here is a suggestio…

    Read More

  3. Cancer and Type 2 Diabetes

    Jan 25, 23 04:52 PM

    An article revealing that older type 2 diabetics have a higher incidence of cancer then non-diabetics. It is suggested that cancer may surpass CVD as the number one cause of death in older diabetics.

    Read More

  4. Does glucosamine or MSM reduce arthritis pain?

    Jan 22, 23 01:41 PM

    A good review of the possible benefits to taking glucosamine, chondroitin or MSM for arthritis. Always beware of the possible side effects of over the counter supplements.

    Read More

  5. shin splints

    Jan 18, 23 05:12 PM

    A great review on the various causes of shin splints, along with treatment options.

    Read More

  6. Whats new in skin cancer?

    Jan 15, 23 08:32 PM

    A presentation of newer skin protection combinations in an effort to better protect the skin from the hazards of sun exposure.

    Read More

  7. Causes and risk factors of warts

    Jan 14, 23 05:02 PM

    A good review of the causes of warts and protective measures you can take to prevent developing them.

    Read More

  8. Do chronic wounds need to be dressed daily?

    Jan 11, 23 02:18 PM

    Because of supply chain shortages as well as staffing shortages particularly during the pandemic, many institutions extended the time between dressing changes for chronic wounds. Is this really the be…

    Read More

  9. Food choices that raise your risk of type 2 diabetes

    Jan 08, 23 10:07 AM

    A good review of how blood sugars can become elevated and the harm that can do. Certain food groups have a tendency to raise your blood sugars and should be avoided.

    Read More

  10. Outcome stats from Scarf bunionectomy

    Jan 03, 23 03:04 PM

    The Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery recently reported a meta analysis of outcomes in 1583 Scarf bunionectomies that met their inclusion criteria. Adverse events did not seem to be any better or wors…

    Read More