A neuroma is the swelling of nerve that is a result of a compression or trauma. They are often described as nerve tumours. However, they are not in the purest sense a tumour. They are a swelling within the nerve that may result in permanent nerve damage. The nerve commonly affected is a small nerve that connects the 3rd and 4th toes. When the neuroma is present in the space between the third and fourth toes, it is called a Morton’s Neuroma. Neuromas are very rare in the spaces between the big toe and second toe, and between the fourth and fifth toes.

Cause of Neuroma:

• High heels can damage the nerve.
• A tight toe box will squeeze the toes in the foot and therefore put pressure on the nerve.
• Mechanical problems with the feet such as over pronation.

Signs & Symptoms of Neuroma:

• Begins with numbness or tenderness in the foot, just behind the 3rd and 4th toes.
• At a later stage, burning pain, numbness, and tingling sensations can radiate around one or two toes. Removing the shoe and rubbing the ball of the foot helps to ease the pain.
• The symptoms may appear and disappear spontaneously and is aggravated by anything that results in further pinching of the nerve.
• Severe pain may be present at weight bearing.
• The patient may experience spontaneous shooting pains, which are often referred to as an “electric shock”. This can affect patients when are sleeping at night.

Treatments for Neuroma:

• The podiatrist will diagnose the condition. History of the condition, clinical presentation and your description of the problem may be sufficient.
• Orthotics (insoles) may be prescribed to redistribute pressure away from the neuroma.
• Appropriate shoes may be recommended.
• A decrease in symptoms may occur instantaneously, with a complete recovery in a few months. However, the patient may need to use insoles to prevent a further recurrence.
• In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

If you would like to make an initial booking enquiry for a Neuroma assessment at the Walk IN Foot Clinic then please submit your details below with a preferred day and we will get back to you as soon as possible with a confirmation of your appointment or suggest an alernative.