Concern Regarding Ankle Lump
I am a 36-year-old woman, standing at 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing 150 pounds. Currently, I am not on any medication and work as a technician specializing in appliance repairs. Recently, I discovered a firm, pea-sized movable lump beneath the skin on my ankle. I have also been experiencing pain in my foot while driving, but I had not noticed the lump until now. Upon touching it, I found that it became irritated. This lump is located just below the outer ankle bone on the side of my foot. Could anyone provide some guidance on this issue?
Answers (1)
7/20/2025, 7:30:50 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about a new lump on your ankle, especially when accompanied by pain. The lump you described could be a variety of things, including a ganglion cyst, a lipoma, or even a benign growth related to overuse or irritation. Given its firm and movable nature and the irritation when touched, it's essential to approach this issue carefully.
Explanation:
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Nature of the Lump:
- Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop around joints or tendons, and they often feel firm and are movable beneath the skin.
- Lipomas are fatty tumors that are typically harmless and also movable under the skin.
- The pain you experience while driving may be related to the position of your foot, potentially aggravating an underlying tendon or joint issue.
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Irritation and Pain: The irritation upon contact indicates that the lump may be pressing on nearby structures, which could be contributing to your discomfort.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Changes:
- Keep an eye on the lump for any changes in size, shape, or texture over the next few weeks. Also, note if the pain increases or decreases.
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Reduce Irritation:
- Try to avoid any activities that worsen the pain or irritate the lump. When driving, adjust your seating to find a position that minimizes discomfort to your foot.
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Self-Care Measures:
- Use ice packs on the lump for 15-20 minutes a few times a day to help reduce any swelling or irritation.
- Consider elevating your foot when resting to decrease any potential inflammation.
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Evaluate Symptoms:
- If the lump grows, becomes more painful, or if you experience additional symptoms such as redness, warmth, or restricted movement in your ankle, it may require further evaluation.
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Document Your Experience:
- Keeping a record of when the lump appears to hurt more and any adjustments you make in activity can provide useful information if further evaluation becomes necessary.
Understanding your concerns and taking these measured steps can help you feel more in control of your situation. If any significant changes occur or if you're feeling uncertain, don't hesitate to consider more formal medical advice in the future. I'm here to provide support every step of the way!
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