Neuromas

Here are some of the causes of neuroma:

• Chronic irritation or compression of the nerve tissue in the forefoot
• Repeated minor injury from walking or ongoing pressure that causes the nerve to swell over time
  
  
• Wearing high-heeled or tight, narrow shoes that force the toes into a pinched position and increase nerve pressure
• Standing for a long period or high-impact activities such as running, jumping, or tennis that place added stress on the forefoot
• Foot deformities, including bunions, hammertoes, flat feet, or high arches, that alter foot mechanics and increase nerve compression
• Repeated squeezing of the nerve between the toe bones, including pressure from tight structures such as the transverse metatarsal ligament

• Feeling as if you are stepping on a small stone or marble
• Burning pain in the ball of the foot that may extend into the toes
• Tingling or numbness along the bottom of the foot
• Separation of the toes without conscious control
• Swelling between the two affected toes

Neuroma treatment focuses on reducing pressure on the affected nerve. Early care includes wearing wide, supportive shoes, using padding or orthotics, resting the foot, and anti-inflammatory medication. 

In more advanced cases, cortisone injections or surgical removal of the enlarged nerve may be necessary.

Can Changing Shoes Help a Neuroma?

Yes. Proper footwear is often the first step in neuroma treatment.

• Choose footwear with a roomy toe area so the toes are not compressed
• Select styles with laces or adjustable straps to control width and fit
• Opt for low-heeled shoes to minimize pressure on the front of the foot
• Wear shoes with thick, cushioned soles and supportive insoles to absorb shock
• Limit or avoid high heels, as they place increased stress on the forefoot

For mild or early-stage neuromas, thick-soled shoes with a wide toe box may relieve symptoms and allow the condition to improve without further intervention.

Can Rest and Home Care Reduce Symptoms?

In early cases, conservative care may provide relief.

• Resting the foot can reduce irritation
• A gentle massage of the affected area may ease discomfort temporarily
• Ice packs can help dull pain and improve comfort
• Over-the-counter shoe pads may reduce pressure around the affected nerve

When Should You See a Podiatric Physician?

Podiatric medical care should be sought at the first sign of discomfort or pain. Early identification is important because untreated neuromas tend to worsen. Your podiatric physician will examine the foot, often obtain X-rays, and develop a treatment plan based on the severity of the condition.

The primary goal of early neuroma treatment is to relieve pressure on the affected nerve.

What Medical Treatments Are Available?

Medication

Cortisone injections and anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation.

Orthotic Devices

Custom orthotic inserts made by a podiatrist can help control foot mechanics, reduce symptoms, and prevent progression.

Laser Therapy

Laser therapy may be used to help reduce inflammation and relieve nerve pain associated with neuromas. It can be used as part of a non-surgical treatment plan to improve symptoms.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

If conservative measures fail and the neuroma progresses, surgical treatment may be required. The procedure involves removing the enlarged and inflamed nerve. 

Surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis, and recovery often takes a few weeks. Postoperative discomfort is generally manageable with prescribed medication. Your podiatric physician will explain the procedure and expected outcomes in detail.

A neuroma diagnosis requires a visit to a podiatrist. The podiatrist begins with a physical examination of the foot. This includes feeling the area between the bones to check for a palpable mass and applying focused pressure to reproduce the pain. Although this may cause temporary discomfort, it helps identify which nerve is involved.

A visual inspection of the foot is also performed. The physician looks for calluses and other signs of mechanical stress that may help explain the source of symptoms. Range-of-motion testing may be performed to rule out other conditions, such as arthritis or joint inflammation.

If the physical findings are not sufficient to confirm the diagnosis, imaging studies may be ordered. An X-ray may be used to rule out stress fractures. In some cases, ultrasound or MRI imaging is necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

If you are experiencing symptoms that may indicate a neuroma or persistent pain in the ball of your foot, do not delay care. 

Prompt medical attention and appropriate care can help stop the condition from worsening. Contact Central Florida Foot & Ankle Center today to schedule a same-day appointment at our Winter Haven, Lakeland, or Davenport locations.