Neuromas are non-cancerous growths of nerve tissue that form in the foot, which is very common and extremely painful. The thickening of the nerve tissue is a direct result of compression and irritation on the nerve, and over time, can lead to permanent nerve damage.

Learn more about what neuromas are, what people who have them may experience, and how Comprehensive Foot Specialists diagnoses and treats neuromas at our office in Huntington, NY.

What are Neuromas?

Neuromas are a condition that results in entrapment and inflammation of a nerve in the foot. This is most commonly seen in the webspace between the third and fourth toes and is termed Morton’s neuroma. The most notable symptoms are pain and numbness, which is often relieved by the absence of footwear with tight toe-boxes and high heels. Usually, there are no external signs of this condition. Instead, you may experience:

• The feeling of standing on a pebble
• Burning pain in the ball of the foot, that can travel into the toes
• Tingling or numbness in the toes and the ball of the foot
• Swelling between the toes
• Pain in the ball of the foot when weight is placed on it

What Causes Neuromas?

The exact cause of the development of neuromas remains uncertain. However, there is a vast array of factors associated with the growth of a neuroma:

• A high-arched foot or a flat foot can lead to the formation of a neuroma
• Trauma can damage the nerve, resulting in inflammation or swelling of the nerve
• Improper footwear that forces the toes to be squeezed together
• Repeated stress, which can create or aggravate a neuroma

Essentially, anything that causes compression or irritation to the nerves in the feet can result in the growth of a neuroma. The most common cause is wearing improper footwear that forces the toes to be squeezed together, such as high-heeled shoes. In addition, those with particular foot deformities including bunions, hammertoes, or flatfeet can be at an increased risk for developing a neuroma. Other likely causes of this painful condition are activities that involve continual irritation to the ball of the foot or an injury or trauma to the nerve.

How are Neuromas Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is often made by applying medial and lateral pressure to the forefoot, which can replicate the symptoms and may be accompanied by a popping sensation. In addition, an MRI or ultrasound may be performed to aid the physician in making the correct diagnosis.

How Comprehensive Foot Specialists Treat Neuromas

Initial treatment for Morton’s neuroma may consist of proper shoe gear, orthotics, and corticosteroid injections. Unfortunately, if such intervention fails, a neurectomy may need to be performed. This surgery involves the removal of the fibrotic/damaged nerve at its source. Post-operatively, the patient is placed in a compressive dressing and allowed to weight-bear the same day.

At Comprehensive Foot Specialists, we are the experts in treating a diverse range of foot ailments, including neuromas. Our primary focus is to provide our patients with the highest level of care, using state-of-the-art technologies and advanced medical methods at our office in Huntington, NY. To learn more about the additional treatments and services we provide, please contact us today.