Neuroma

What is a neuroma?

A neuroma is a nerve tumor that forms in the ball of your foot. It occurs when the tissue around your nerves thickens and hardens, resulting in sharp, burning pain. Neuromas affect people of all ages, but they’re especially common in people who wear tight or high-heeled shoes.

What are the symptoms of a neuroma?

Symptoms of a neuroma include:

• The sensation of having a rock in your shoe
• Burning, stabbing, or shooting pain 
• Pain that radiates into your toes
• Tingling and numbness

If you have a neuroma, you might also notice that rubbing your foot relieves these symptoms. 

When should I see a podiatrist regarding a neuroma?

Make an appointment at Advanced Foot & Ankle Center if you experience pain in the ball of your foot that doesn’t respond to painkillers or ice and rest. 

You should also book an appointment if you experience foot pain that persists, even after you change shoes or modify your daily activity.

Who is at risk of a neuroma?

Anyone can experience a neuroma, but several factors may increase your risk, including:

• Wearing high heels
• Jogging or running
• Skiing
• Rock climbing

You’re also more likely to experience a neuroma if you have an underlying foot problem like hammertoe, high arches, or flat feet. 

How is a neuroma diagnosed?

To diagnose a neuroma, your Advanced Foot & Ankle Center provider reviews your medical history and asks about your symptoms. Then, they conduct an exam, gently pressing on the ball of your foot to pinpoint areas of sensitivity or warmth. 

If your provider suspects your symptoms are the result of another condition, like a stress fracture, they might also order X-rays. In some cases, they order ultrasounds to determine the size or location of a neuroma.  

How is a neuroma treated?

Treatment of a neuroma depends on the severity of your symptoms and their effect on your daily routine. Whenever possible, Advanced Foot & Ankle Center recommends conservative treatments like physical therapy, wearing more comfortable shoes, or custom orthotics.

If those treatments don’t provide adequate relief, your provider might recommend corticosteroid injections or decompression surgery. Injections reduce pain and inflammation while decompression surgery relieves pressure on the neuroma by cutting certain ligaments.

To receive treatment for a neuroma, make an appointment at Advanced Foot & Ankle Center by calling the nearest office or clicking the online booking feature today.