What is a neuroma?
A neuroma is a benign nerve tumor frequently found between the third and fourth toes. Neuromas are painful, causing numbness in the toes and the ball of the foot, along with a burning or tingling sensation. They may feel like you have a stone lodged in your shoe under your toes while walking.
The exact cause of neuromas is unknown, but many factors contribute to their formation, including:
- High-arched feet or flat feet
- Trauma or injury damaging the nerve
- Footwear that squeezes toes together
- Footwear with heels higher than 2 inches
Make sure your footwear fits properly and avoid wearing shoes with excessive heel height to help prevent neuromas.
What are the symptoms of neuromas?
You should make an appointment with Dr. Jurcisin if you find yourself taking off your shoe in search of a stone that isn’t there or having to stop walking to rub your foot. Other symptoms of neuromas may include:
- Tingling in the ball of your foot
- Foot numbness
- Pain in the ball of your foot when standing on it
- Swelling between your toes
Call Dr. Jurcisin at the first sign of symptoms, as neuroma symptoms worsen if left untreated.
How are neuromas treated?
Treatment options for neuromas vary depending on the severity. Early identification and treatment decreases the likelihood of needing surgical correction. In the early stages, neuromas are treated with thick-soled shoes with a wide area for the toes. For severe neuromas, treatments may include:
Padding and taping
Placement of padding around the ball of your foot can relieve neuroma symptoms.
Anti-inflammatory drugs
Neuroma causes inflammation. Using anti-inflammatory drugs and cortisone shots can reduce inflammation to ease pain.
Custom shoe inserts
Orthotics can reduce and help prevent worsening neuroma symptoms. Shoe inserts are custom-made to control foot functioning.
Podiatric surgery
In severe cases of neuroma or when all other treatments fail, podiatric surgery may be necessary. Neuroma surgery removes the enlarged and inflamed nerve to relieve symptoms.
Don’t ignore the signs and symptoms of neuromas. Call Precision Footcare or use the convenient online scheduling tool to book an appointment today.
