Neuroma
A neuroma is a painful growth of nerve tissue in the foot that usually occurs between the third and fourth toe.
They are caused by irritation to the nerve as a result of poorly fitting shoes, stress on the foot, and by trauma.
Symptoms are pain between the toes affected, tingling and numbness in the ball of the foot, swelling, a sharp burning pain in the ball of the foot, and a painful lump.
Treatment of a neuroma is usually accomplished without surgery. Your podiatrist will help you to come up with a comprehensive plan to manage your neuroma.
They may suggest shoes with adequate support and width, avoiding high heels, wearing custom shoe inserts or orthotics, padding or taping the ball of the foot, physical therapy, and using anti-inflammatory medications to ease pain and swelling.
Consult your podiatrist if these treatments are not helping. They may decide to treat the nerve directly by surgical removal or by using an injection of an alcohol solution to numb the area permanently. Foot pain is not normal and should be addressed by a podiatrist to insure proper foot function and mobility. |
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