Neuroma Specialist

What is a neuroma?

A neuroma is a common problem that triggers severe pain in the ball of your foot. It’s a benign tumor that forms due to a thickening of the nerve tissue that leads to your toes. 

Neuroma pain typically occurs between the third and fourth toes. Many people describe the sensation as having a pebble or other small object lodged in their shoes.

What are the symptoms of a neuroma?

Common symptoms of a neuroma include:

• Tingling or numbness
• Burning pain
• Discomfort in the ball of the foot that spreads to the toes
• Difficulty standing or walking

If you have a neuroma, you might also notice that the pain tends to resolve at night.

Who is at risk of experiencing a neuroma?

Neuromas affect people of all ages, races, and genders, but several factors may increase your risk, including wearing tight shoes that crowd the toes or structural foot abnormalities like bunions, hammertoe, or flatfeet.

You’re also more likely to develop a neuroma if you participate in high-impact sports that cause repetitive trauma, like running. Athletic activities that put pressure on your toes, like mountain climbing and skiing, also increase your risk. 

How is a neuroma diagnosed?

To diagnose a neuroma, Dr. Linn asks about your symptoms and lifestyle and physically examines your foot. He gently presses on the ball of your foot to see if there’s a mass or tender spot.

If these measures aren’t enough to confirm a neuroma, Dr. Linn orders X-rays to rule out other potential causes, like a stress fracture. He might also recommend an ultrasound. An ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to provide real-time images of the soft tissues in your feet.

How is a neuroma treated?

Treatment for a neuroma depends on your individual symptoms and their effect on your ability to work or exercise. Usually, Dr. Linn recommends conservative treatments like arch supports, footpads, or custom orthotics. These appliances fit the contours of your foot and relieve pressure on the neuroma.

If your pain persists or gets worse, more invasive measures, such as corticosteroid injections or decompression surgery, might be necessary. Ultimately, the goal of treatment is to ease pain and restore your mobility.

Don’t wait to request a neuroma consultation at Foot & Ankle Center of Ocala. Book online, or call to speak with a team member today.