By Fords Foot and Ankle Care
At Fords Foot and Ankle Care, we’re committed to helping patients in Fords, NJ, find relief from foot conditions that impact their daily lives. One common but often misunderstood condition we treat is neuroma, specifically Morton’s neuroma—a painful nerve issue that typically affects the ball of the foot. In this article, we’ll cover what neuromas are, what causes them, how they’re diagnosed, and most importantly, how they can be treated.
What Is a Neuroma?
A neuroma is a thickening of nerve tissue that can develop in various parts of the body. In the foot, the most common type is Morton’s neuroma, which affects the nerve between the third and fourth toes. This condition leads to irritation and compression of the nerve, causing sharp, burning pain, tingling, or numbness.
Common Causes of Neuromas
Several factors can contribute to the development of neuromas, including:
- Footwear choices: High heels and narrow shoes can compress the toes and aggravate the nerves.
- Biomechanical abnormalities: Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal gait patterns increase pressure on the forefoot.
- Repetitive stress: Activities like running or sports that involve high impact on the feet can irritate the nerves over time.
- Previous injuries: Trauma to the foot may result in inflammation or nerve damage that leads to neuroma formation.
Symptoms of a Neuroma
Patients with a neuroma often describe:
- A sensation of standing on a pebble or having a fold in their sock
- Burning or tingling pain in the ball of the foot
- Numbness in the toes
- Sharp pain that worsens with activity or tight shoes
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
At Fords Foot and Ankle Care, we diagnose neuromas through a detailed physical exam and, when necessary, imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI. Once diagnosed, treatment typically begins conservatively and escalates if symptoms persist.
Conservative Treatments:
- Footwear modifications: Switching to wider shoes with soft soles to reduce pressure.
- Custom orthotics: Inserts that provide proper foot alignment and relieve nerve pressure.
- Padding and taping: To reduce irritation and correct foot mechanics.
- Anti-inflammatory medications: To reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Corticosteroid injections: To reduce nerve inflammation and pain.
Advanced and Surgical Treatments:
- Radiofrequency ablation or sclerosing injections: Minimally invasive options for chronic pain.
- Surgical removal: If all else fails, removing the affected portion of the nerve may be considered. This is typically a last resort.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is a neuroma the same as a tumor?
A: No. Despite the name, a neuroma is not a cancerous tumor. It’s a benign (non-cancerous) thickening of nerve tissue caused by chronic irritation or pressure.
Q: How long does it take to treat a neuroma?
A: With conservative treatment, many patients experience relief within a few weeks to a few months. Chronic cases may require longer-term solutions or surgical intervention.
Q: Can neuromas go away on their own?
A: Rarely. Without addressing the root cause—such as improper footwear or abnormal foot structure—the neuroma is likely to persist or worsen.
Q: Are neuromas more common in women?
A: Yes, especially due to the frequent use of tight, high-heeled shoes which can increase nerve compression.
Q: Will I need surgery for a neuroma?
A: Most patients respond well to non-surgical treatments. Surgery is only considered when conservative methods fail to relieve symptoms after several months.
Q: Can I prevent neuromas?
A: Yes. Wearing supportive, well-fitting shoes, avoiding high heels, and using custom orthotics if needed can help prevent neuroma formation.
Schedule Your Evaluation Today
If you’re experiencing persistent foot pain, numbness, or discomfort in the ball of your foot, don’t wait. The earlier a neuroma is diagnosed, the more effective the treatment.
Contact Fords Foot and Ankle Care to schedule an appointment:
📍 Address:
Fords Foot and Ankle Care
519 New Brunswick Ave
Fords, NJ, 08863
📞 Phone: (732) 738-4441
🌐 Website: fordsfootandanklecare.com
Let our expert team help you get back on your feet—pain-free and confident!