Neuroma
Description:
A neuroma is a benign growth that occurs when the nerves in the ball of the foot are pinched and inflamed. It is most commonly found between the third and fourth or second and third toes and adjacent web spaces of the foot.
This condition is associated with other foot conditions such as:
Symptoms may include pain, burning, tingling or numbness between the toes and on the ball of the foot associated with standing for long periods of time or increased activities.
Treatment: Conservative Care:
| Shoes: | A larger, softer shoe can relieve the direct pressure or pressure from adjacent toes. Make sure that the shoe has enough room at the end about the width of your thumb and that the toe box (front of the shoe) is high enough to allow your toes to move freely. |
| Medication: | Anti-inflammatory medication (Eg. Ibuprofen, Naprosyn) aspirin products, and Acetaminophen can help with the chronic pain, but are not much help with the acute pain. |
| Injection: | An anesthetic (numbing agent) mixed with cortisone (anti-inflammatory) is placed around the neuroma to help shrink the mass and relieve the sharp pain and tingling sensation. |
| Padding: | There is an array of over the counter pads that can be placed behind the ball of the foot and/or between the toes to separate them and relieve the pressure. |
| Arch support: | Temporary arch supports or custom molded orthotics will give pressure relief and is the best solution for long term treatment with or without surgical intervention. |
Surgical Options:
The neuroma can be removed with minimal effort and numbness or loss of sensation is limited to the involved web space. The incision is made from the top of the foot (average 1.5cm to 3/4 inch) and sutures are removed at 2 weeks. The procedure is performed at an outpatient facility under sedation. Partial weight bearing is allowed after 48 to 72 hours of non weight bearing.
