Neuromas

Expert diagnosis and treatment for neuromas at Suburban Foot & Ankle

Overview

A neuroma is a painful condition involving nerve tissue, typically occurring between the third and fourth toes (Morton's neuroma). It causes burning, numbness, and a sensation of stepping on a pebble.

Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding neuromas

What does a neuroma feel like?

Common symptoms include burning pain in the ball of the foot, numbness or tingling in the toes, a feeling of having a pebble in your shoe, or a lump between the toes. Pain typically worsens with activity or tight shoes.

What causes Morton's neuroma?

Neuromas develop from irritation or compression of the nerve, often due to tight shoes (especially high heels), repetitive stress, foot deformities like bunions or hammertoes, or high-impact activities.

Can a neuroma be treated without surgery?

Many neuromas respond well to conservative treatment including wider shoes, metatarsal pads, orthotics, activity modification, anti-inflammatory medications, and corticosteroid injections. Surgery is reserved for persistent cases.

What does neuroma surgery involve?

The most common procedure involves removing the affected nerve tissue. While this provides permanent relief, it results in permanent numbness between the toes. Most patients find this preferable to the pain they experienced.

How successful is neuroma treatment?

Conservative treatment is effective in 60-70% of cases. Surgical removal has a success rate of 80-90%. Early treatment generally leads to better outcomes, so don't wait to seek care.