Neuroma

What is a neuroma?

A neuroma, specifically Morton's neuroma, is a condition characterized by the thickening or enlargement of a nerve, usually occurring between your third and fourth toes in the ball of your foot. It involves the compression or irritation of the interdigital nerve, leading to pain, discomfort, and sometimes a feeling of a small, benign growth or lump between your toes.

What causes a neuroma?

The causes of a neuroma are often associated with repetitive stress or pressure on your forefoot, leading to irritation or damage to your nerve. This can result from various factors, including wearing tight or narrow footwear, high-heeled shoes, or engaging in activities that put excessive pressure on the front of your foot. 

Foot deformities like bunions or hammertoes can also contribute to the development of neuromas.

What are the symptoms of a neuroma?

Symptoms of a neuroma commonly include:

• Pain or discomfort in the ball of your foot, particularly between the affected toes
• A sensation of a lump or thickening in the area
• Tingling or numbness in your toes
• Pain that gets worse with walking, standing, or wearing tight shoes

If you experience signs of a neuroma, reach out to the Ledesma Foot and Ankle team as soon as possible. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

How is a neuroma treated?

Your Ledesma Foot and Ankle providers typically recommend conservative treatments first, which may include:

• Footwear modifications
• Orthotic devices
• Corticosteroid injections
• Changes in activity
• Shockwave therapy

If conservative treatments don’t provide sufficient relief, more advanced interventions might be considered, such as alcohol sclerosing injections (a mixture of alcohol and a local anesthetic around the nerve to shrink the neuroma and reduce pain) or radiofrequency ablation (radiofrequency energy to disrupt the nerve and alleviate pain).

In cases where symptoms persist or worsen, surgical removal of the neuroma may be necessary, which involves excising the affected nerve to relieve pain and discomfort.

If you suspect you have a neuroma, schedule an evaluation at Ledesma Foot and Ankle. The team can determine the severity of your condition and provide treatment. 

Call the friendly administrative staff today to request an appointment, or use the online scheduling tool for convenience.