Podiatrist Offices Conveniently Located In Kenilworth, Bayonne, Little Ferry & Montclair New Jersey

Innovative Foot & Ankle

Footnotes / Blog

Sunday, August 6th, 2017 Elizabeth Anthony

What is a Foot Neuroma?

A foot neuroma, often referred to as Morton’s Neuroma, is a thickening of the tissue surrounding one of the nerves leading to your toes. This can cause sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot. Additionally, you may experience stinging, burning, or numbness in the toes. Some patients describe the sensation as if they are walking on a marble.

What Causes Neuromas in the Foot?

Neuromas occur when there is constriction or irritation of the common plantar digital nerve, which runs between the toes. High-heeled shoes or tight, narrow footwear can compress the foot, putting pressure on the nerves. Foot trauma can also trigger the development of a neuroma. The condition most commonly affects the space between the 3rd and 4th toes. While more prevalent in women, men can also develop foot neuromas.

Diagnosis of Foot Neuromas

To diagnose a foot neuroma, a podiatrist will:

  • Perform a physical examination, including gently squeezing the foot to check for a palpable “click” known as Moulder’s sign, which may recreate the pain and sensations felt by the patient.
  • Take X-rays to rule out any bony issues that may be contributing to the pain in the area.

Treatment Options for Foot Neuromas

  • Injections: Corticosteroid injections can reduce nerve swelling and inflammation, providing temporary or long-term pain relief.
  • Orthotics: Custom-made shoe inserts (orthotics) can help redistribute pressure on the foot and alleviate discomfort. These are especially useful if the neuroma is related to the biomechanics of the foot.
  • Footwear Modification: Avoiding high heels and tight shoes can help relieve pressure on the nerve, allowing the condition to heal. This may result in permanent pain relief in some cases.
  • Surgery: For persistent cases that do not respond to conservative treatments, surgical removal of the neuroma and possibly cutting any ligaments causing pressure on the nerve may be necessary.

Conclusion

If you are suffering from a foot neuroma, the podiatrists at Innovative Foot & Ankle can help. Dr. Kaufman, Dr. Rallatos, Dr. Gonzales, Dr. Visperas, and Dr. Anthony are trained in both conservative and surgical treatment options. We have offices conveniently located in Kenilworth, Bayonne, Little Ferry, and Montclair, New Jersey.

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