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Neuroma - A Thickening or Enlargement of the Nerve
A neuroma is a thickening of nerve tissue that may develop in various parts of the body. The most common type in the foot occurs at the base of the third and fourth toes and is called Morton's (or inter-metatarsal) neuroma.
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Symptoms
Because neuroma is essentially a damaged nerve, the following symptoms are common:
- Tingling, burning, or numbness
- Pain
- A feeling that something is inside the ball of the foot, or that there's a rise in the shoe or a sock is bunched up.
Over time, the symptoms progressively worsen and may persist for several days or weeks and become more intense as the damage intenifies and the temporary degradation in the nerve becomes permanent.
Causes
Anything that causes compression or irritation of the nerve can lead to the condition. One of the most common causes is wearing shoes with a tapered toe box, or high-heeled shoes that cause the toes to be forced into the toe box.
Those with bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet are also at higher risk. Other potential causes are activities that involve repetitive irritation to the ball of the foot, such as running or racquet sports. An injury or other trauma to the area may also lead to a neuroma.
Treatment
Treatment varies according to the severity of the problem. For mild to moderate cases, treatment options include:
- Padding. Padding techniques provide support for the arch to lessen pressure on the nerve and decrease compression when walking.
- Icing. Placing an ice pack on the affected area helps reduce swelling.
- Orthotic Devices. Custom orthotic devices can provide the support needed to reduce pressure and compression on the nerve.
- Activity Modification. Activities that put repetitive pressure on the neuroma should be avoided until the condition improves.
- Changes in Shoewear. Wear shoes with a wide toe box and avoid narrow-toed shoes or shoes with high heels.
- Medication. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, help reduce the pain and inflammation.
- Injection Therapy. If significant improvement is not seen after initial treatment, injection therapy may be tried.
Surgery may be considered in patients who have not received adequate relief from other treatments. Surgery generally involves either removing or releasing the affected nerve.
The length of the recovery period will vary based on the procedure(s) performed. Long-term measures to avoid a recurrence include wearing appropriate footwear and the avoidance of activities that cause repetitive pressure on the foot.
We Can Help
The podiatrists at Northwest Surgical Specialists are leaders in both conservative and surgical treatment of all foot and ankle disorders. For additional information, please contact one of our three convenient locations to arrange a consultation.
3100 W. Higgins Rd., Ste. 150
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
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Foot & Ankle Care
Pain Management
Physical Therapy
Therapeutic Massage
Skin Care
Surgical Care Center
431 Summit Street, Suite 102
Elgin, IL 60120
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Foot & Ankle Care
Physical Therapy