Neuroma Specialist

What causes a neuroma?

Morton’s neuroma — nicknamed “intermetatarsal neuroma” — is often described as being a benign nerve tumor. But it’s really a thickening of the tissue that surrounds your nerve. As this tissue continues to swell up, it irritates your nerve and causes constant pain.

Neuromas tend to form between your third and fourth toe along the ball of your foot. They usually form gradually as your bones and connective tissues get squeezed together or undergo periods of stress. You can develop a neuroma due to:

• Participating in certain sporting activities, like running
• Wearing tight shoes or high heels
• Standing on your feet all day

Your chance of suffering from Morton’s neuroma also increases if you have a foot deformity, such as a bunion or hammertoe, or even flat feet.

How do I know if I have a neuroma?

It’s common for neuroma sufferers to explain that they feel like they have a small rock or pebble in their shoe, but nothing is there, nor is there a bump or growth on their foot itself. This is a common complaint and a telltale sign of inflammation of nerve tissue. As your neuroma progresses, you may also experience:

• Tingling or burning
• Numbness or pain
• Diverging or separating toes

Your neuroma symptoms can radiate into your toes and cause agonizing discomfort with each step you take. Fortunately, you can get the neuroma treatment and pain relief you need at Premier Foot & Ankle.   

Can I get treatment for a neuroma?

Yes! Your dedicated podiatrist at Premier Foot & Ankle examines your feet and performs a comprehensive exam. They may use an in-office digital X-ray to help confirm a neuroma diagnosis and rule out related conditions. Depending on the severity of your neuroma, your treatment plan may include:

• Padding techniques
• Activity modifications
• Specialized footwear
• Custom-molded orthotics
• Corticosteroid or alcohol-based injections
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Premier Foot & Ankle practitioners proudly offer an advanced and conservative treatment known as PodiaTherm™ radiofrequency (RF) therapy. This minimally invasive procedure, performed right in the office under local anesthesia, uses RF energy to disrupt your nerve so it can no longer transmit pain signals.  

If your symptoms are severe or if conservative Morton’s neuroma treatments aren’t effective, your podiatrist may recommend surgery. At Premier Foot & Ankle, neuroma surgery involves cutting into surrounding nerve tissue to relieve pressure on the nerve and minimize ongoing inflammation issues.

Before your neuroma pain starts affecting your daily life, see how the team at Premier Foot & Ankle can help. Book your neuroma exam online or over the phone with your nearest office.