Foot and ankle cancer is uncommon, but when it occurs, early detection is critical. Because cancer in the foot or ankle often resembles common conditions such as foot pain, ingrown toenails, non-healing wounds, or even ankle sprains, it may go undiagnosed until it becomes more advanced. At Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists of Arizona, we prioritize early recognition and thorough evaluation for patients in Chandler, Arizona, as well as surrounding areas including Gilbert, Mesa, and Tempe, to ensure serious conditions are identified promptly.
Foot and ankle cancer refers to malignant tumors that develop in the skin, soft tissues, bones, or nail unit of the foot or ankle. These cancers may originate locally or spread from another area of the body. Common types include skin cancers such as melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma, soft tissue sarcomas, bone tumors, and cancers that affect the toenail. Because the feet are subject to daily pressure, friction, and minor trauma, abnormal lesions or wounds are often mistaken for routine podiatric problems, delaying diagnosis.
Symptoms of foot and ankle cancer can be subtle and progress gradually. Warning signs include a wound or ulcer that does not heal, a growing lump or mass, unexplained swelling, changes in skin color or texture, bleeding or drainage from a lesion, dark streaks or discoloration beneath a toenail, or persistent foot pain that does not improve with standard treatment. Any abnormality that continues to worsen or fails to heal should be evaluated by a podiatrist.
A useful screening tool for identifying potentially concerning skin changes is the ABCDE rule for cancer detection, which applies to the feet and ankles as well. A stands for Asymmetry, meaning one half of a lesion does not match the other. B is for Border, referring to irregular, jagged, or poorly defined edges. C is for Color, including uneven coloring or multiple shades such as brown, black, red, white, or blue. D is for Diameter, with lesions larger than a pencil eraser (about 6 millimeters) warranting evaluation, although smaller lesions can still be concerning. E is for Evolving, which refers to any change in size, shape, color, elevation, or symptoms such as bleeding, itching, or pain. Pigment changes beneath a toenail or color spreading beyond the nail should also be assessed promptly.
Several risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing foot and ankle cancer. These include a history of skin cancer, excessive sun exposure, chronic non-healing wounds, repeated trauma or irritation, immune system disorders, and underlying conditions such as diabetes. Patients with diabetic foot issues or poor circulation may be at higher risk for delayed diagnosis, as wounds are more common and healing is often slower.
Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment options and outcomes. When identified in its early stages, foot and ankle cancer can often be treated with localized care and less invasive procedures. Delayed diagnosis may require more extensive surgery and can impact mobility, function, and overall health. If a lesion, wound, or area of foot pain does not respond to appropriate care, further evaluation is essential.
At Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists of Arizona, Alex Stewart, DPM, FACFAS and Antonius Su, DPM take a comprehensive approach to evaluating suspicious foot and ankle conditions. Diagnostic tools such as detailed physical examinations, X-rays, and ultrasound imaging help assess bone and soft tissue abnormalities. When indicated, patients may be referred for biopsy or additional testing. Treatment options may include wound care, surgical excision of suspicious lesions, corrective surgery, custom orthotics to relieve pressure, foot and ankle therapy, and coordination with oncology specialists when necessary.
Routine foot care and regular podiatric visits play an important role in early detection. Patients should inspect their feet regularly, monitor skin and nail changes closely, wear properly fitting shoes to reduce irritation, and seek medical attention for persistent foot pain or abnormalities. These preventive habits are especially important for individuals with diabetes, circulation problems, or a history of foot ulcers.
If you are experiencing unexplained foot or ankle pain, a non-healing wound, nail discoloration, or a changing skin lesion, do not delay care. While many foot and ankle conditions are benign, ruling out serious causes such as cancer is essential. To schedule an evaluation, contact Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists of Arizona at (480) 963-9000 or visit www.advancedfootankle.com. Our team proudly serves Chandler and the surrounding East Valley and is committed to protecting your foot and ankle health.