A neuroma occurs when a nerve is irritated, compressed or inflamed. This results in the thickening of the nerve and the surrounding tissues, and people with this condition often experience intense pain. At Podiatry Station, we can help relieve your symptoms with trusted specialist treatment and care.
Book an appointmentThe main symptom of neuroma is severe pain. Patients often describe this pain as burning, knife-like stabbing, or just complete agony, so much so that they are unable to put their foot down and walk. You may also feel like there is a lump like a pebble stuck under your foot.
The most affected areas are between the 3rd and 4th web spaces and toes, but people often feel pain across the front of their foot too. This is because the nerve that supplies this area of the foot is naturally thicker, so it is more exposed to trauma that may result from inappropriate footwear or an underlying biomechanical issue. We can assess your feet and provide a treatment plan.
Contact us for moreThe treatment for neuroma often focuses on alleviating symptoms and reducing compression on the affected nerve. Conservative approaches include modifying footwear to reduce pressure on the neuroma, using metatarsal pads or orthotic inserts for additional support, and avoiding high-heeled shoes or shoes with a narrow toe box.
Applying ice to the affected area and over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain and inflammation. Physical therapy may be recommended to stretch and strengthen surrounding muscles, improving overall foot mechanics. Corticosteroid injections may provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation around the nerve.
We can give you immediate relief through padding and strapping. The surgical removal of the neuroma is also an option, but this is usually reserved for worst case scenarios, where the patient has not responded to any conservative method. We see you for regular monitoring to ensure optimal management of your neuroma and improved foot health.
A neuroma is a benign growth or thickening of nerve tissue. One of the most well-known neuromas is Morton’s neuroma, which typically occurs between the third and fourth toes or the second and third toes. It results from irritation or compression of the intermetatarsal nerve, leading to pain and discomfort.
Symptoms of a neuroma include pain, burning, tingling, or numbness in the affected area, often felt between the toes or in the ball of the foot. Some individuals may experience the sensation of a lump or the feeling that there is something inside their shoe.
Diagnosis of a neuroma involves a physical examination by a healthcare professional, including a discussion of symptoms and medical history. An ultrasound or MRI scan may be used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions causing similar symptoms.
Conservative treatments for a neuroma include wearing supportive and properly fitting footwear, using orthotic inserts, and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be recommended for pain and inflammation. In some cases, corticosteroid injections or physical therapy may be beneficial. If conservative measures are ineffective, surgical options, such as neuroma excision, may be considered.
