Neuroma

If you’re experiencing pain, tingling, or numbness in your toes or at the ball of your foot, it may be caused by a neuroma. The providers at Lincoln Park Podiatry, with locations in the Chicago communities of Lincoln Park and Lakeview, has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating neuromas. Call for your appointment today or use their convenient online scheduling service.

What is a neuroma?

In developing a treatment plan, your foot and ankle surgeon will first determine how long you have had the neuroma and will evaluate its stage of development. Treatment approaches vary according to the severity of the problem.

For mild to moderate neuromas, treatment options may include:

• Padding. Padding techniques provide support for the metatarsal arch, thereby lessening the pressure on the nerve and decreasing the compression when walking.
• Orthotic devices. Custom orthotic devices provided by your foot and ankle surgeon provide the support needed to reduce pressure and compression on the nerve.
• Activity modifications. Activities that put repetitive pressure on the neuroma should be avoided until the condition improves.
• Shoe modifications. Wear shoes with a wide toe box and avoid narrow-toed shoes or shoes with high heels.
• Injection therapy. Treatment may include a series of injections of cortisone, local anesthetics or other agents.

What causes Morton’s neuroma?

While it’s not really clear what causes a neuroma, various conditions can increase your risk of developing one, including:

• Trauma to the forefoot
• Arthritis
• Bunions
• Hammer toes

Structural issues such as a highly arched or flat foot can also cause formation of a neuroma by creating instability in the toe joints. Wearing shoes with heels higher than two inches also increases your risk.

Sometimes neuromas are linked to physical stress caused by occupations that require significant standing or walking, especially if you regularly wear shoes that squeeze your toes together.

What are the treatments for neuroma?

Treatments for this common condition include shoe inserts or padding to relieve pressure on the nerve caused by structural problems. The doctor may recommend oral medication to relieve the inflammation and pain. They may also suggest an injection to the area that decreases inflammation and helps speed the healing process.

If your pain persists after trying conservative measures, they may recommend sclerosing injections. This procedure uses an injection to deliver a substance that actually shrinks and eventually destroys the neuroma without surgery.  Vein specialists have used this method for many years to treat problematic varicose veins. It generally requires a series of injections to effectively destroy the neuroma.  Should this not work there are minor surgical options that may be right for you. Call for your appointment today or use their convenient online scheduling service to discuss this further.

When Is Surgery Needed?

Surgery may be considered in patients who have not responded adequately to nonsurgical treatments. Contrary to popular belief the nerve does not always have to be removed! You AND the doctor will determine the approach that is best for your lifestyle. Make your appointment to discuss all of your options with Dr. Williams.