A neuroma can occur in many areas of the body when nerve tissue thickens. Morton’s neuroma is the most typical neuroma that occurs in the foot and it occurs between the third and fourth toes. Also known as an intermetatarsal neuroma, the name describes its location in the ball of the foot.
What are neuromas?
Neuromas are also known as nerve tumors or pinched nerves. You can get neuromas in many parts of your body, but in your feet, they generally appear on the ball of your foot between your third and fourth toes. This is called a Morton’s neuroma.
You can also experience pinched nerves in other parts of your foot, for example, a heel neuroma, which is known as Baxter’s neuritis.
Neuromas can happen for many reasons and the cause isn’t always clear. Some common factors include:
- Trauma to your foot
- Repetitive foot stress
- Biomechanical foot deformity, like flat feet or very high arches
- Nerve irritation triggered by other foot problems
- Nerve entrapment during surgery
Neuromas are a painful, frustrating problem that requires treatment as soon as possible.
What are the signs I have a neuroma?
The telltale sign of Morton’s neuroma is generally sharp pain when you’re standing or walking. You may experience other symptoms like burning, pins-and-needles sensation, and numbness, as well. Many Morton’s neuroma sufferers feel like they’re walking with a rock in their shoe.
What is the best treatment for neuromas?
Valley Foot & Ankle uses a variety of state-of-the-art treatments to manage neuromas. Some treatment options include:
Custom orthotics
Valley Foot & Ankle designs custom orthotics using an advanced laser scanner. A custom orthotic fits inside your shoe to correct problematic motion and relieve pressure on the neuroma.
New footwear
A change of footwear, like discontinuing high heel wear, can alleviate the pressure aggravating your neuroma.
Injections
Corticosteroid injections can relieve nerve inflammation and pain associated with neuromas. Another injection option, hydrodissection, delivers saline or anesthetic to separate the nerve from scar tissue and relieve your pain.
Radiofrequency ablation
Radiofrequency ablation disables the nerves causing pain with a radiofrequency energy probe. It’s ideal for Morton’s neuromas, Baxter’s neuritis, and other nerve entrapments. Local anesthesia minimizes any discomfort, and any pain generally lasts less than 20 seconds.
Radiofrequency ablation is a great option for neuroma pain that doesn’t respond to other types of treatment because it relieves your pain without requiring surgery.
The Valley Foot & Ankle team is dedicated to your health and is here to help you walk without pain. Call the office or book an appointment with the online scheduler today.