The Ball of My Foot Hurts

If you feel a sharp shooting pain on the ball of your foot it could be a Neuroma. A Neuroma is a thickening or enlargement of nerve tissue most commonly found on the ball of the foot. This is generally due to excess pressure and compression causing irritation of the nerve.
General symptoms are:
Tingling, burning, or numbness
Pain similar to stepping on a needle or pebble
Treatment options include:
• Padding to reduce pressure on the ball of the foot         • Icing.
• Orthotics to support the foot properly and reduce pressure on the ball of the foot.
• Activity modifications.  Activities that put repetitive pressure on the neuroma should be avoided until the condition improves.
• Changes in shoe gear. It’s important to wear shoes with a wide toe box and avoid narrow-toed shoes or shoes with high heels.
• Medications.  Anti-inflamatory drugs like advil or aleve, help reduce the pain and inflammation.
• Physical Therapy
• Injection therapy. If there is no significant improvement after initial treatment, injection therapy may be considered which can consist of either cortisone or dehydrated alcohol shots.
Another non-invasive technique is Platelet Rich Plasma Injections. This is similar to Stem Cell Therapy where your own cells heal the injured tissue.
When is Surgery Needed? 
Surgery may be considered in patients who have not received adequate relief from other treatments. Generally, there are two surgical approaches to treating a neuroma. The first is dissection and removal of the nerve. The 2nd is release of the intermetatarsal ligament which eliminates compression of the nerve. Remember, early diagnosis of a neuroma greatly lessens the need for more invasive treatments and can avoid surgery. Why live with pain if you don’t have to?
Dr. Tony Avakian received his medical and surgical training at Cornell Medical Center, Midway Hospital, and Cedars Sinai.  He is nationally recognized as one of the top podiatrists in the nation, and has been nominated as the best podiatrist in SCV by KCAL 9 Best of LA.  Visit our Facebook for before and after bunionectomy photos.
Valencia Foot and Ankle Center located at 23206 Lyons, Suite 108 in Newhall.  For more information, please call 661-288-2321 and visit www.curefeet.com.