Relieving Painful Neuromas

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At NY Foot Health, we know that most patients who have experienced a neuroma are not likely to forget what it feels like. Although benign, this condition, which is also referred to as a nerve tumor or pinched nerve, can be very painful. A neuroma is a growth of nerve tissue that develops in the ball of the foot, frequently between the third and fourth toes, that can cause pain, burning, numbness or a tingling sensation.

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should make an appointment to see your podiatrist. Need help finding a podiatrist? Use our online directory to locate a qualified foot doctor in your area. Fortunately, there are several treatment options for neuromas, depending on how severe the condition is.

Home Treatments

One of the simplest ways to relieve neuroma pain is by choosing shoes that are more accommodating and less likely to aggravate the nerve. Shoes with high heels and narrow toe boxes are more likely to cause the development of a neuroma. This is probably why more women than men get neuromas. Look for styles with laces or buckles that allow you to make them wider for comfort. Other things to try:

  • Resting your foot when the pain starts and trying to eliminate or substitute activities that increase neuroma symptoms

  • Reducing pain by massaging the affected area and applying an ice pack

  • Cushioning the neuroma with over-the-counter shoe pads or wearing shoes with thick, shock-absorbent soles

Podiatrist Options

If these measures fail to bring relief, your podiatrist may want to try one of the following:

  • Cortisone injections and other anti-inflammatory medications to ease pain and inflammation

  • Custom orthotic inserts for your shoes to fix a biomechanical defect that is causing excessive pressure on the nerve

  • Taping and padding to relieve symptoms and correct abnormal foot function

  • Surgery to remove the inflamed nerve

To learn more about neuromas and other conditions that can affect the health of your feet and ankles, contact us.

nerve disorders, Foot PainNYSPMAneuroma