If you’re experiencing foot pain, you may be wondering what could be causing it. Many conditions affect the feet, and one such condition is known as a neuroma. Today, Dr. Hubert Lee of CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists is sharing information to relieve your anxiety.
A neuroma is a disorder of the nerves that can result in a great deal of pain. Sometimes referred to as a pinched nerve, it is actually a nerve growth or tumor many of which are benign (noncancerous).
What Are the Symptoms of a Neuroma?
The most common symptom of a neuroma is foot pain that is usually felt at the location of the neuroma, which is most often between the toes. These tumors can also cause tingling in the ball of the foot, a burning feeling, or even numbness in the foot.
Walking is often particularly painful for people who are suffering from a neuroma. At the first onset of pain, the person often assumes that they have a pebble in their shoe, as the growth can cause inflammation in the foot.
What Causes a Neuroma?
There is no one identified cause of a neuroma; however, there are some possible ones to consider. For instance, trauma to the nerve in the foot can cause inflammation and irregularities in the anatomy of the foot – such as flat feet or extra bones – can also cause a neuroma. They can also be the result of stress injuries from high-impact activities, many hours on your feet at work, or wearing poorly-fitting footwear.
Can a Neuroma Be Treated at Home?
If you suspect that you are suffering from a neuroma, you can try certain therapies at home to lessen your discomfort. Ice massages may reduce pain and swelling in the foot. Rub or massage ice on the ball of the foot and in between the toes for immediate relief.
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicines can also diminish your discomfort. Orthotics can redistribute the pressure on your foot when you are walking or standing to put less pressure on the neuroma and reduce irritation and pain.
What Medical Treatments Are Available?
In addition to home remedies, a number of medical treatments can also help relieve the discomfort from a neuroma. For example, corticosteroid shots are used to decrease inflammation in the affected area and reduce pain.
There are two surgical procedures that can also provide relief from a neuroma. With the decompression technique, your podiatrist will take out the ligament that is applying pressure to the affected nerve. Another option is to remove the nerve entirely, but doctors typically leave this as a last resort because it can result in numbness that is permanent.
Now that you know these facts about neuromas, it’s time you receive the care you need to finally eliminate your foot pain. Call the office of Dr. Hubert Lee of CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists today at (425) 455-0936 to schedule a consultation so we can work together to relieve your pain and your anxiety.
