Neuroma is a medical condition that occurs due to the enlargement of nerves, which is often benign. It is commonly seen between the third and fourth toes and is caused by the rubbing of tissue that leads to irritation of nerves. Symptoms of neuroma include a feeling of thickness, numbness, tingling, burning, or pain in the ball of the foot. Ill-fitted shoes and abnormal bone structures could also lead to this condition.
If left untreated, neuroma can cause chronic foot pain. However, it is generally treated non-surgically by wearing corrective shoes or orthotics, receiving cortisone injections, or undergoing physical therapy. Dr Gilbert Huang DPM is a specialist who treats various foot problems and vascular/nerve problems related to the feet. He uses the latest technology and treatment methods to relieve foot pain, including neuroma.
Morton’s Neuroma is a specific type of neuroma that occurs due to the thickening of tissues around the nerve that leads to the toes. Wearing high-heeled or narrow shoes, trauma, and other factors could cause Morton’s Neuroma. Symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma include burning pain in the ball of the foot that radiates to the toes or numbness in the toes.
Conservative treatments for Morton’s Neuroma include wearing roomier, lower-heeled footwear or using orthotics to reduce nerve pressure, and injected corticosteroid medication to reduce swelling and inflammation. In severe cases, surgical removal of the growth may be necessary.
If the pain from neuroma becomes chronic, surgery may be recommended. Neuroma surgery involves the surgeon cutting and removing the inflamed nerve. The procedure generally takes place on a same-day outpatient basis using local anesthesia. Patients may receive crutches or surgical shoes for post-surgery, and recovery time is generally four to six weeks.
Patients who undergo neuroma surgery must keep the sutures dry until they are removed within 10 to 14 days after the surgery. Patients are advised to keep the affected foot elevated and iced during the first few days after the surgery to reduce swelling. Patients are generally restricted to limited walking until the sutures are removed, and they can return to normal shoe wear in about three weeks.
In conclusion, neuroma is a treatable medical condition that requires timely intervention to avoid chronic foot pain. Dr Gilbert Huang DPM is a specialist who can evaluate and treat all kinds of foot problems, including neuroma. Conservative treatments for neuroma include wearing corrective shoes or orthotics, physical therapy, and cortisone injections. In severe cases, surgical removal of the growth may be necessary, but patients can expect a full recovery in four to six weeks. If you are experiencing chronic foot pain, do not hesitate to contact a specialist like Dr Gilbert Huang DPM to help you find the cure for your foot ailment.