If it feels like you have a pebble in your shoe, but one isn’t there, you may have a neuroma. A neuroma is a thickening of nerve tissue that usually forms at the base of the third and fourth toes. This conditioning may or may not form a bump, but it can cause extreme pain, especially if you’re standing. The condition can also cause burning, numbness, and tingling.
You may feel momentary relief as soon as you sit down and take off your shoes. However, this is one condition you shouldn’t ignore, as neuromas can get worse over time. In this blog, Kerry E. Berg, DPM, of Intermountain Foot & Ankle Associates explains more about neuromas and how they can be treated.
Anyone can develop a neuroma at any time. However, there are things can increase your risk of developing a neuroma, including the following:
You should make an appointment with Dr. Berg if you have pain that lasts more than a couple of days. In most cases, Dr. Berg will start with simple, noninvasive treatments. Some of these treatments may include the following:
If your neuroma is due to wearing tight shoes, such as high heels, Dr. Berg may advise you to wear shoes with more room in the toe box. Shoes with more support and more room in the toes may be enough to make a significant difference.
Dr. Berg may also advise you to take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or Tylenol. These medications can provide significant pain relief. However, they can be hard on your organs when taken long-term, so it’s important to take medications according to the directions and pursue other treatments if your pain continues.
Dr. Berg may also recommend orthotic inserts to wear in your shoes. These orthotics may include foot pads or arch supports. These inserts are available at stores and can also be custom-made.
Sometimes, a neuroma can become a big enough problem that it doesn’t respond to the more conservative interventions described above. In this instance, Dr. Berg may recommend a surgical solution, so you can get comfortably back on your feet again.
These surgical interventions include the following:
If you have symptoms suggesting that you might have a neuroma, it’s important to get it checked out as soon as possible. You don’t have to live with the pain in your feet anymore. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with Intermountain Foot & Ankle Associates today.
