Neuromas

Neuromas, or pinched nerves, are thickened areas of nerve tissue which cause pain, burning, tingling or numbness.   Morton’s neuroma, which occurs between the third and fourth toes, is the most common neuroma.

A neuroma can develop when a nerve is compressed or irritated.  Potential causes are

  • Wearing shoes with a tapered toe box

  • Participating in activities like running which involve repetitive irritation to the ball of the foot

  • Having existing foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes or flatfeet

Potential treatments may include

  • Wearing shoes with thicker soles or shoes with a wider toe box

  • Padding and taping the ball of the foot

  • Taking anti-inflammatory medication

  • Utilizing custom shoe inserts

  • Surgery to remove the nerve

Untreated neuromas tend to worsen over time.  Visit us to discuss your treatment options.

 

References:

APMA.  Neuromas.  https://www.apma.org/neuromas

Foot Health Facts.  Morton’s Neuroma (Intermetatarsal Neuroma).  https://www.foothealthfacts.org/conditions/morton-s-neuroma-(intermetatarsal-neuroma)