Foot pain that doesn’t go away may be more than just discomfort; it could signal an underlying condition. A neuroma, often referred to as Morton’s neuroma, is a painful growth of nerve tissue found between the toes. It can cause burning sensations, numbness, or the feeling of standing on a pebble. Here’s more information on the symptoms and treatment options for neuroma:
What Is a Neuroma?
A neuroma is a benign growth of nerve tissue, often referred to as a nerve tumor. This condition typically develops in various parts of the body, but one of the most common types is Morton’s neuroma, which affects the foot. It occurs when the tissue surrounding a nerve in your foot thickens, usually between the third and fourth toes. This thickening can create pressure on the nerve, resulting in significant discomfort when walking or standing.
What Are Its Symptoms?
The symptoms of a neuroma are generally felt in the area of the nerve growth and can range from mild to severe. Many people describe the sensation as feeling like they have a pebble stuck in their shoe. The pain is often sharp and burning in the ball of the foot and may radiate out to the toes. Also, you may experience numbness or a tingling sensation in the affected toes. These symptoms tend to worsen with activity or when wearing tight or high-heeled shoes.
What Are Its Non-surgical Treatment Options?
The primary goal of these treatments is to reduce the pressure on the affected nerve. For instance, wearing wider shoes with a lower heel can provide more space for your toes and alleviate pressure. Your doctor may also recommend custom orthotics or padding to support the foot and minimize stress on the nerve.
To complement footwear modifications, certain medications can help manage the pain and inflammation associated with a neuroma. Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be helpful for reducing inflammation. For more persistent symptoms, corticosteroid injections may be administered directly into the affected area to provide relief from pain and swelling. These conservative approaches are often the first line of treatment.
What Are Its Surgical Treatment Options?
If non-surgical methods do not provide adequate relief, surgical interventions may be contemplated. One surgical option is nerve release, where the surgeon relieves pressure on the nerve by cutting nearby structures, such as the ligament that connects the toe bones. In more severe cases, the surgeon may perform a procedure to completely remove the affected nerve tissue, known as surgical removal. Both procedures are designed to provide long-term pain relief.
Following surgery, proper care is fundamental for a successful recovery and long-term management. Your doctor will provide specific instructions on how to care for your foot to make sure it heals correctly. Long-term management often involves continuing to wear appropriate footwear and using orthotics to prevent the recurrence of symptoms.
Learn More About Neuroma Today
A neuroma can cause chronic pain that interferes with your daily activities, but effective treatments are available. From conservative measures, such as changing your footwear, to surgical options, there are various ways to manage this condition. If you are experiencing symptoms consistent with a neuroma, consult a trusted healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for your specific needs.
