A Neuroma Can Cause Foot Pain

A neuroma is a growth on a nerve that occurs when the nerve is stressed and constricted. The most common type of neuroma to affect your feet is called Morton’s neuroma and it affects the interstitial nerve between the third and fourth toes. The sensation has been likened to having a “pebble in your shoe” and as the neuroma worsens, it can cause considerable pain and an uncomfortable burning and numbing sensation.

People who overly stress their feet with exercise and work and those who wear high heeled shoes are more susceptible to developing a neuroma. Individuals who have bunions and/or hammertoes are also more likely to experience an uncomfortable neuroma in the ball of the foot.

3 conservative treatments for a foot neuroma include:

1)    Wear the correct shoes—Shoes that have a wide toe box and a lower heel cup will help decrease pressure on the nerve that is being pinched.

2)    Custom orthotic shoe inserts—These can separate and isolate the bones between the toes and remove the source of pressure.

3)    Anabolic steroid treatments—Steroids can be injected into the area and are effective at reducing inflammation and eliminating pain but they may have side effects.

An untreated neuroma can lead to chronic foot pain, and since other conditions like gout or a stress fracture can cause similar symptoms, see your foot doctor for the proper diagnosis and treatment. We highly recommend that you consult our board-certified podiatrists, Andrew Shapiro, DPM and Michael Barkin, DPM. With access to advanced technologies, along with years of experience to help diagnose and treat a variety of foot and ankle problems, we can assist you with conditions such as heel pain, ankle sprains, diabetic foot care, toe deformities, and nail fungus. Andrew Shapiro, DPM and Michael Barkin, DPM is conveniently located in Nassau County in Long Island to accommodate all of your foot care needs. Call (516) 825-3860 or book an appointment online today!