Neuromas
What are Neuromas?
A neuroma is a nerve tissue growth often located between the third and fourth toes. Although benign, a neuroma can be painful with a burning sensation or numbness.
These factors can contribute to a neuroma:
- Biomechanical deformities like a flat foot or high arch.
- Improper shoes that squeeze the toe area. High heels can also apply excess pressure to the toes.
- Repeated stress to the toes and ball of the foot.
- Trauma.
Symptoms of Neuromas
Neuroma symptoms include:
- Pain between the toes when walking
- Feeling like there is a stone in the shoe.
- Numbness or tingling in the ball of the foot.
- Pain in the ball of the foot with weight-bearing.
- Swelling between the toes.
How can I prevent Neuromas?
Preventing neuromas involves choosing footwear with a wide toe box and avoiding high heels that put pressure on the forefoot. Regularly resting your feet and avoiding repetitive activities that put stress on the toes can also help. Engage in foot-strengthening exercises to improve the overall health of your feet. If you have foot deformities or gait issues, consider using custom orthotics to distribute pressure more evenly across the foot.
Treatment for Neuromas
If you suspect a neuroma, try some home treatment. Switch to shoes with plenty of toe room and low heels. Proper shoes will have shock-absorbent soles and insoles to keep excessive pressure off your foot.
Rest your foot as much as possible and ice to relieve discomfort. Massaging the area can temporarily ease neuroma pain.
When these methods don’t work, it’s time to visit your podiatrist. Left untreated, neuromas may worsen. The earlier it is treated, the sooner the neuroma will heal.
We will relieve the pressure from the area. Padding the ball of the foot can relieve neuroma symptoms. Anti-inflammatory medications and cortisone injections can ease pain and inflammation.
Custom-fitted orthotics can help control foot function while they relieve symptoms and prevent worsening.
For more severe neuromas, we will discuss surgery with you. The outpatient surgery removes the enlarged nerve.
Neuromas, particularly in the form of Morton’s Neuroma, can cause significant discomfort and impact your daily life. Early recognition and treatment are vital to managing symptoms and preventing further nerve damage. At West Hartford Podiatry Associates, we’re dedicated to providing expert care for foot conditions like neuromas. Our team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and lifestyle. If you’re experiencing persistent pain or discomfort in the ball of your foot, schedule an appointment with us. Let’s take the necessary steps to get you back to comfortable, pain-free movement.