What Is A Neuroma?
A neuroma (Morton's neuroma) is a condition that arises from irritation of a nerve resulting in inflammation of the nerve sheath, or covering, and the possible formation of scar tissue around the nerve. It is a benign condition that occurs most commonly in the small nerve that runs between the metatarsal bones in the ball of the foot and into the third and fourth toes. Irritation to the nerve can result from improper shoes (too tight ,high heels), injury or a mechanical abnormality of the foot.

What Are The Symptoms?
The most common smptom of a neuroma is pain in the ball of the foot that may radiate into the toes or even up the foot to the heel or ankle. The pain is variously described as sharp, burning or tingling in nature. Oftentimes patients have difficulty pinpointing the exact location of the pain and may complain of a generalized discomfort in the ball of the foot or the feeling that their sock is bunched up under the foot. Symptoms can be aggravated by activity that bends the foot - walking, running, wearing high-heeled shoes - or by wearing tight shoes. If the neuroma becomes large, you may also experience a "clicking" sensation or "lump" in the ball of your foot.

What Are The Treatment Options?
Treatment for neuromas generally depends on the amount of discomfort or disability you are experiencing. Trying wider shoes or shoes with lower heels may be beneficial, especially in the early stages. Ice applied to the bottom of the foot may also relieve the pain associated with a neuroma. When conservative measures fail to relieve the symptoms, consultation with a podiatric pysician is advised to discuss further options. Treatment may include the use of injections or surgery, depending on the specifics of your condition.

At the Weil Foot & Ankle Institute, we have been the first in the world to treat this condition with Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT). ESWT is a non-invasive treatment that does not require immobilization or a disabling recovery.

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Weil Foot & Ankle Institute
(847) 390-7666
Email : info@weil4feet.com
Website : www.weil4feet.com