Neuroma Specialist

What is a neuroma?

A neuroma in your foot — often called Morton’s neuroma — is the enlargement of a nerve commonly found between the bases of the second and third toes at the ball of the foot. As the nerve enlarges and is “pinched” by ligaments and other structures in your foot, it becomes irritated. Some patients describe the discomfort as feeling like there’s a stone in their shoe while others report numbness in the toes or the ball of the foot, burning pain, or an uncomfortable electric sensation in the area. The symptoms typically occur while you’re walking and may decrease when you massage or rub the painful area.

What causes Morton’s neuroma?

While it’s not really clear what causes a neuroma, various conditions can increase your risk of developing one, including:

• Trauma to the forefoot
• Arthritis
• Bunions
• Hammer toes

Structural issues such as a highly arched or flat foot can also cause formation of a neuroma by creating instability in the toe joints. Wearing shoes with heels higher than two inches also increases your risk.

Sometimes neuromas are linked to physical stress caused by occupations that require significant standing or walking, especially if you regularly wear shoes that squeeze your toes together.

What are the treatments for neuroma?

Treatments for this common condition include shoe inserts or padding to relieve pressure on the nerve caused by structural problems. The doctor may recommend oral medication to relieve the inflammation and pain. They may also suggest an injection to the area that decreases inflammation and helps speed the healing process.

If your pain persists after trying conservative measures, they may recommend sclerosing injections. This procedure uses an injection to deliver a substance that actually shrinks and eventually destroys the neuroma without surgery.  Vein specialists have used this method for many years to treat problematic varicose veins. It generally requires a series of injections to effectively destroy the neuroma.  Should this not work there are minor surgical options that may be right for you. Call for your appointment today or use their convenient online scheduling service to discuss this further.