What causes a neuroma?
Neuromas tend to develop because of excess pressure on your nerve. In many cases, the issue is improper footwear, such as high heels, that puts added strain on your forefoot. Snug or pointy shoes that squish your toes together can also put pressure on your nerves.
Over time, as your nerve continues to be pinched or exposed to excessive pressure, tissues surrounding the nerves become thicker, which leads to the pain and other symptoms you experience. Your risk of suffering from a neuroma further increases because of:
- Trauma or foot injuries
- High arches
- Flat feet
Sometimes, neuromas develop because of repeated stress, like if you’re a runner or have to work on your feet all day.
How do I know if I have a neuroma?
Neuroma sufferers tend to have one primary complaint: It feels like there’s a pebble stuck in your shoe. You may also feel like your sock is bunched up even though everything is fine. These abnormal sensations occur because of the surrounding nerve tissue inflammation and swelling that puts pressure on your nerve.
As your neuroma progresses, you may start experiencing:
In most cases, these symptoms occur along the bottom of your forefoot, right between your third and fourth toes. This is known as a Morton’s neuroma. If any of these neuroma symptoms sound familiar, schedule an evaluation at FootCare Specialists, Inc. right away.
What is the treatment for a neuroma?
Your neuroma treatment plan from FootCare Specialists, Inc. is likely going to begin with conservative measures to relieve pressure on the inflamed nerve and help it heal. Dr. Kaplan could recommend:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Corticosteroid injections
- Padding and taping
- Custom orthotics
- Roomier shoes
If you’ve tried conservative neuroma treatments for several months and haven’t had relief, Dr. Kaplan could recommend surgery. Neuroma surgery, which is usually an outpatient procedure, can involve removing the inflamed nerve entirely, or cutting into surrounding structures to make more room for the nerve.
Modern neuroma surgery offered at FootCare Specialists, Inc. is minimally invasive, so you can expect a short recovery period.
Get started on your neuroma treatment by booking an exam at FootCare Specialists, Inc. today. Click on the online booking tool or call either clinic to speak with a team member.
