A neuroma is swelling of the nerves as a result of a compression or trauma, often described as nerve tumors. Neuromas are most commonly found on the ball of the foot and can cause burning pain, tingling and numbness in one or two of the toes. As the nerve swells, it can be felt as a popping sensation when walking. There are many causes of neuromas, including a puncture wound or laceration as well as a side effect to surgery. Neuromas can be treated with orthotics, cortisone injections, chemical destruction of the nerve or surgery.
A neuroma is an inflamed nerve that is caused by a compression or trauma. The most common neuroma of the foot is a Morton's neuroma, which occurs between the third and fourth toes, but neuromas can occur in other locations in the foot as well.
Anything that causes compression or irritation of the nerve can lead to the development of a neuroma. A puncture wound or laceration that injures the nerve can also cause a neuroma to form. These types of neuromas are referred to as traumatic neuromas. Neuromas can also occur following a surgery that may result in the cutting of a nerve. People with certain foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, flatfeet or more flexible feet or anyone that participates in repetitive activities such as running or court sports are at a higher risk for developing a neuroma.
If you have a neuroma, you may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
-Tingling, burning and/or numbness in the foot and toes
-Pain when walking
-A sensation of walking on a lump or something being inside the ball of the foot
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, don't hesitate to come in to see us. A physical examination will be performed and tests or imaging studies will be done if necessary. Early diagnosis greatly lessens the need for more invasive treatments and may help avoid surgery, so see us as soon as your symptoms begin.