What are neuromas caused by?
A neuroma, most commonly referred to as Morton's neuroma, is a swelling or enlargement of one of the small nerves of the foot that develops between two metatarsals. There are many reasons why a neuroma forms, some of which include the patient's foot type, shoe type and activity and, most significantly, from chronic injury to the nerve.
What does a neuroma look and feel like?
The neuroma usually causes pain in the ball of the foot with weight bearing. Many people with this condition report feeling a painful sensation while walking, and many report sharp pains that spread out to the two toes where the nerve ends. You may actually be able to feel a swelling between the toes or a feeling similar to a rock in the shoe. This can feel like electric shocks, similar to hitting your funny bone on the elbow.
What can be done to treat a neuroma?
First line of treatment is change of shoe type, as changing to a wider shoe will reduce or eliminate the symptoms. An injection of xylocaine and cortisone into the area by your podiatrist may help temporarily.
If this fails to resolve the pain, surgery may be warranted, which may include removing the neuroma and the nerve as well. This results in permanent numbness in the area supplied by the nerve.
Credit: University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio
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