Although neuroma is commonly known to evolve in the feet, this muscle disorder can also develop in other body locations. For example, when muscles of the ball of the foot are irritated or compressed, they can develop neuromas in this area, often very painful but occasionally showing no symptoms at all.
What Causes Neuromas?
Some of the common reasons that neuromas develop in the feet are as follows.
- Surgeries, mainly a foot or leg amputation
- Tight shoes or high heels or footwear with constricted or pointed toes
- Flat feet or other genetic abnormalities in the feet
- Bunions and corns
- Repeated stress on the muscles (such as from running)
- Chronic illnesses like gout or arthritis
If one or more of these six conditions applies to you, you may be at risk for developing neuromas. Taking stock of your current condition can help reduce your chances of developing this condition, such as changing out footwear for shoes with wider toes and lower heels.
What Does A Neuroma Feel Like?
Wondering if the pain you’re feeling could be a neuroma? The following five descriptions are common symptoms of neuromas in the feet.
- Pain, especially a burning pain or the feeling that you are stepping on a marble in the ball of your foot
- Numbness or tingling in your toes
- Difficulty walking because of pain or numbness
- Pain that eases in the night
- Discomfort that increases with walking or wearing tight shoes
Do these symptoms describe you? If so, you may be suffering from a neuroma in your foot. Not sure? You should consider visiting a podiatrist to assess your condition. Your foot doctor can provide imaging to see if you have a foot neuroma. If you do not have a podiatrist and are looking for one in the NYC area, Best Foot Doctor has offices in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. Our offices are ready to assist you in understanding neuromas and your options for treatment.
What Are the Treatment Options for Neuromas?
Some of the first things a podiatrist may recommend include the following.
- Shoe inserts that reduce the pressure on your feet – over-the-counter inserts may provide some relief, but your podiatrist may also recommend custom inserts.
- Massaging the area with ice can help to relieve pain and inflammation.
- Staying off your feet can help relieve symptoms and allow your feet to heal.
- Changing constricting footwear for looser or better-fitting shoes can help relieve the pressure on your feet.
If these four options do not provide relief, your doctor will recommend more advanced measures to treat your condition. These may include injections or neuroma surgery, depending on the severity of your condition.