Neuroma
Got nerve pain, tingling, or numbness in the ball of your foot? It could be Mortons Neuroma.
Don’t Ignore That Niggling Pain in Your Foot – It Could be Neuroma
Do you sometimes feel as if there’s a small rock in your shoe or you’re standing on a fold of your sock, but when you check, there’s nothing there? This sort of discomfort shouldn’t be ignored, particularly if it’s happening frequently – you may have developed neuroma, which will only worsen if you don’t seek treatment.
Whilst neuromas can occur anywhere in the body, they are incredibly common in the feet (where they’re known as Morton’s neuroma). Seeking treatment quickly may nip your pain in the bud, allowing you to get back to the things you love doing most.
What is a Neuroma?
Also known as a ‘pinched nerve’ or nerve tumour, a neuroma is a benign growth of nerve tissue that is frequently found between the third and fourth toes. The tumour compresses the affected nerve, which is what causes pain.
Whilst the exact cause of this condition is unclear, several factors can contribute to the formation of a neuroma. These include:
- Biomechanical deformities, such as high arches or flat feet. These foot types cause instability around the toe joints.
- Trauma can damage the nerve, resulting in inflammation or swelling in the area.
- Improper footwear that causes the toes to be squeezed together. High-heeled shoes higher than two centimetres, for example, can increase pressure on the forefoot area.
- Repeated stress, such as exercises that place load on the forefoot (like cycling and dancing), can create or simply aggravate a neuroma.
Neuromas are more common among middle-aged people between 45 and 60 years old. Women are also more likely to develop this condition.
What are the Symptoms of a Neuroma?
The main symptom that people with neuroma experience is pain between the toes while walking.
It is sometimes described as a burning sensation, tingling, or numbness between the toes and the ball of the foot. Swelling and pain radiating into the toes may also be experienced, as well as pain in the ball of the foot when weight is placed on it. Some describe the feeling as similar to having a stone in their shoe. Pain tends to worsen with activity, particularly when standing, walking, or running are involved.
Relief is often found by stopping, removing the shoe, and rubbing the affected area.
How is a Neuroma Treated?
Whilst there are things you can do at home to relieve pain caused by neuroma (such as wearing shoes with plenty of room for the toes to move, avoiding high heels, and resting your foot), it is recommended that you see a podiatrist at the first sign of pain. If left untreated, neuromas tend to get worse rather than better.
Your podiatrist will take down your history, as well as perform a physical and biomechanical examination of your foot. If a neuroma is suspected, they will usually refer you for an ultrasound to determine how developed the tumour is, then suggest a treatment plan to suit. Treatment options vary according to the severity of the neuroma.
- Padding and taping, which involves placing special padding at the ball of the foot. This may change abnormal foot function and relieve symptoms.
- Medications, such as anti-inflammatories and cortisone injections, may be prescribed to ease acute pain and inflammation.
- Orthotics, which are custom shoe inserts, may be useful in controlling foot function, as well as reducing symptoms and preventing the neuroma from worsening.
- Surgery, which is a last resort, involves the inflamed and enlarged nerve being removed. Recovery often takes just a few weeks.
Foot And Leg Pain Centre
Your Neuroma Questions Answered
Whilst it’s not possible to completely prevent a neuroma from forming, there are things you can do to reduce your risk. These include wearing comfortable shoes with plenty of room for your toes, avoiding high heels, and engaging in low-impact exercise.
No. There are a few other conditions that may have similar symptoms, which your podiatrist will rule out during their examination. Some of these conditions include bursitis, stress fracture, plantar plate tear, tendonitis, and contusion (or bruising).
Potential complications include chronic pain (which makes it difficult to walk, stand, or engage in physical activity), foot deformities, nerve damage, and reduced mobility. It is important to remember that such complications are only likely to occur if you fail to seek treatment.
If you are receiving treatment, but your symptoms persist or even worsen, be sure to speak with your podiatrist. They may recommend additional tests to further evaluate what’s going on, a different treatment approach, or may even refer you to another specialist (such as an orthopaedic surgeon).
Yes. It is important that you change your lifestyle and/or remove the cause of the initial neuroma, otherwise you risk developing another one. Your podiatrist will be able to guide you in the lifestyle changes that are recommended to prevent reoccurrence.
Why Choose Foot and Leg Pain Centre?
Dedicated Team
Our team is led by Dr Angus Chard, who possesses more than 30 years of clinical experience. It won’t be long until the rest of the time has caught up!
Personalised Treatment
We know that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to podiatry, which is why we take the time to tailor a treatment plan to suit your needs.
Welcoming Environment
Some people are embarrassed by their condition or need for treatment, which is why we seek to create a friendly and welcoming environment.
Start Walking Pain-Free With Foot and Leg Pain Centre
Whilst a neuroma cannot necessarily be ‘cured’, with proper treatment, it is possible to keep the pain manageable and under control. You will be able to return to the activities you enjoy, such as exercise and socialising, without fear that your feet are going to begin hurting unbearably.
We have been treating neuroma at the Foot and Leg Pain Centre for many years now. If you suspect that you have developed one of these tumours, make an appointment with one of our podiatrists today for a full assessment and a treatment plan to match.
Walk Towards Wellness With Foot and Leg Pain Centre
Whether you’re an avid runner, an on-your-feet-all-day worker, or simply somebody who enjoys walking with their dog, plantar fasciitis can disrupt your routine and dampen your spirits. However, this doesn’t have to be a permanent problem.
At Foot and Leg Pain Centre, our team of experienced podiatrists understands the intricacies of plantar fasciitis, and we’re committed to providing you with the knowledge, support, and personalised treatment options to restore your physical freedom. Together, we’ll uncover the underlying causes, explore therapies tailored to you, and empower you to step forward. When you’re ready to take that step, book an appointment today!