Neuroma Specialist

What is a neuroma?

Sometimes called a pinched nerve or nerve tumor, a neuroma is a painful condition that refers to thickening of the tissues that surround your nerves. Neuromas frequently affect the nerves in your feet, especially the ones near your third and fourth toes. 

Neuromas commonly affect runners as well as well as people with certain foot deformities. 

A telltale sign of a neuroma is pain between your toes as you walk. Additional symptoms may include:

• Tingling
• Numbness
• Pain in the ball of the foot

Symptoms typically worsen over time as the neuroma enlarges. The pain caused by neuromas is often compared to the feeling of having a rock stuck in your shoe. 

What causes neuromas?

The exact cause of neuromas isn’t always clear, but they do tend to develop in response to irritation or injuries to the nerves in the front of your foot.

Certain biomechanical foot problems like flat feet or high arches can increase your risk of developing neuromas. Repetitive stress and wearing tight-fitting shoes can also lead to neuromas. 

How are neuromas diagnosed?

Successfully treating your neuroma requires an accurate diagnosis. Before recommending treatment, your podiatrist performs an in-depth physical examination to check for tenderness, masses, and other abnormalities in your foot.

In some cases, they may conduct imaging tests like an X-ray to rule out other possible causes of your pain, like stress fractures or arthritis. Once you’ve been diagnosed, your doctor works with you to develop the most effective treatment plan.

What treatments are available for neuromas?

Godoy Foot & Ankle Center specializes in conservative care and offers a number of nonsurgical treatments for neuromas, including:

• Orthotics
• Footwear changes
• Padding and taping
• Pain medication
• Cortisone injections

Your podiatrist may combine several conservative treatments to effectively manage your condition. The goal of conservative treatment is to relieve your pain and help you return to your normal activities.

If your symptoms don’t improve with conservative care, your doctor may recommend surgical treatment. Surgery typically involves decompressing or removing the affected nerve. 

Godoy Foot & Ankle Center is committed to providing the most effective foot and ankle care. To schedule your visit, call or book online today.