Neuroma

What causes a neuroma?

Morton’s neuroma is sometimes called a “benign tumor.” Even though a neuroma is abnormal tissue development, it’s actually thickened nerve tissue, not a tumor. In most cases, neuromas form in the ball of your foot right between your third and fourth toe. You can develop a neuroma due to:

• Foot deformities, such as bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet
• Repetitive stress, like a distance runner might experience
• Wearing ill-fitting shoes, such as high heels

No matter the cause of your neuroma, it’s important to have a thorough diagnosis and get started on treatment before your nerve damage gets any worse. 

Are there symptoms of a neuroma?

Yes. The unique symptom of a neuroma is the sensation of always having a bunched up sock, a marble or a pebble in your shoe, even though in reality, nothing is there. While you may feel like you’re standing on something uncomfortable, neuromas don’t cause any outward signs, so you won’t see a visible bump.

When you have a Morton’s neuroma, you may also experience:

• Tingling
• Burning
• Numbness 

Your dedicated podiatrist at Foot + Ankle Specialty Centers performs a comprehensive exam and talks with you about your symptoms. They may also request in-office X-ray or ultrasound imaging to confirm a neuroma and rule out any related conditions. 

How is a neuroma treated?

One of the most important things to do if you have a neuroma is to start wearing comfortable supportive shoes with plenty of room in the toe box. Pointy and high-heeled shoes can worsen the inflammation associated with a neuroma. Your podiatrist at Foot + Ankle Specialty Centers talks with you about proper footwear.

Depending on the severity of your neuroma and any related symptoms, your neuroma treatment plan may include:

• Physical therapy 
• Custom orthotics
• Corticosteroid injections
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

If conservative treatments aren’t providing relief from neuroma discomfort, your podiatrist may recommend surgery. Neuroma surgery can involve removing the inflamed nerve tissue or cutting into surrounding tissues to make more room for the nerve. 

The expert practitioners at Foot + Ankle Specialty Centers specialize in minimally invasive surgical techniques for neuroma procedures, so your downtime is minimal. 

Schedule your neuroma evaluation at Foot + Ankle Specialty Centers directly through the website. You can also call your nearest office to speak with a team member.