Bump near heel

[Russ Hall]

My left foot has been sore for the past couple months and I'm debating if I should see a podiatrist. I have a bump close to the instep, just in front of the heel. It is sore in the mornings and after sitting for a while but doesn't give me problems during my runs. It doesn't sound like what I've read about plantar fasciitis. I've soaked it in ice water a couple times with no demonstrable effect. I bought new shoes as mine were 400+ miles and again no difference. I'm concerned about long term. Am I causing myself damage even though it is currently only a minor annoyance? Thanks in advance. - Russ

[Scott]

How large is the bump area?  What about other shoes that you wear (when you're not running)? 

[Russ Hall]

The bump is fairly large. Covers both tips of my forefinger & middle fingers (when together) & sticks out almost as far as my heel. I don't notice that it feels better or worse with any pairs of shoes. I think it started when I kicked something with the bottom of my foot and I didn't know the thing was frozen to the ground. I can't say for certain though. Might have just been a gradual running injury?

[Dave Holt]

I had a similar situation a few years back - It looked as if it might have been a scar tissue to protect an injured heel (bone spur/stress fracture).  But with massaging and some time it went away.  I actually think it had to do with some major plantars I had around the same time period.  I was pretty painful and annoying, but like I said it went away and I am no worse for the wear now; so hopefully you can have the same results.