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: Tingling, burning, or numbness. Also, pain similar to stepping on a needle or pebble is felt. Treatment options include: padding to reduce pressure on the ball of the foot, or icing or 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 wear: It’s important to wear shoes with a wide toe box and avoid narrow-toed shoes or shoes with high heels.
Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, like Advil or Aleve, help reduce the pain and inflammation.
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 radiofrequency ablation which is where radio waves are used to produce heat and destroy the nerve.
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 second is release of the intermetatarsal ligament that eliminates compression of the nerve. Remember, early diagnosis of a neuroma greatly lessens the need for more invasive treatments and can avoid surgery.
For more information, please call 661-288-2321.