Neuroma

Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute

Podiatrists & Foot Surgeons located in Clinton Township, Chesterfield, Fort Gratiot, East China Township, Shelby Township, Rochester & Macomb, MI

A neuroma can cause serious pain, tingling, and numbness in your foot. Sometimes, the pain can make it nearly impossible to walk, so it’s important to reach out to the expert podiatrists at Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute. Click the online appointment maker or call the location closest to you today.

Neuroma Q & A

What is a neuroma?

A neuroma is a thickened area of nerve tissue. A Morton's neuroma, the most common foot neuroma, occurs in the middle of your third and fourth toes. Neuromas can cause several symptoms, including:

Pain
Burning
Tingling
Numbness

These symptoms may occur just in the space where the neuroma exists, but they often spread to the ball of your foot, as well. Often, neuroma symptoms make it painful to walk. Many neuroma sufferers say that neuromas feel like having a small rock lodged in their shoe all the time.

What causes neuromas?

Neuromas develop when your nerves get compressed or otherwise irritated. Some common causes of neuromas include:

Wearing high-heeled shoes (or other shoes with a tapered toe housing)
Pre-existing bunions
Pre-existing hammertoes
Pre-existing flatfoot
Sports that put pressure on the balls of your feet, such as running

Sometimes, a trauma may also develop suddenly, as in the case of a serious foot injury.

How are neuromas treated?

Neuroma treatment depends on the type of issues you're having. Your Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute podiatrist may prescribe custom orthotics to tame the pressure on the balls of your feet. You may also need help with the pain, which may include oral or injected medications.

If your neuroma doesn't respond to nonsurgical treatments, your podiatrist may perform a minor surgical procedure to help you get long-term relief.

How can I prevent neuromas in the future?

Your podiatrist can recommend several things to help you prevent neuromas in the future. This may include:

Footwear changes: Avoid high heels or other footwear that constrict your toes whenever possible
Rest: Regularly rest your feet, especially after wearing heels or unusual footwear
Ice: If you have foot pain, apply ice packs at home while you rest
Equipment changes: Always use specially made and high-quality gear for sports or exercise

Neuromas aren't always preventable, but in most cases simply avoiding excessive pressure on your feet can keep you from this frustrating and painful issue. Your podiatrist may also have some extra tips to help you stay neuroma-free in the future.

Use the online appointment tool or call now to schedule your visit to the Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute location closest to you.

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