That Numbness Might Be Morton's Neuroma
Are you dealing with a constant or intermittent feeling like there is a pebble inside the ball of your foot, a sensation like there is something in your shoe, or an odd certainty that a sock is bunched up under your foot even when you're barefoot? If you are noticing one or more of these symptoms, especially when combined with numbness, tingling, or pain, you might be developing a neuroma.
What Is a Neuroma?
A neuroma is a thickening of nerve tissue and is the result of compression and irritation that creates swelling and enlargement of the nerve. If left untreated, a neuroma can lead to permanent nerve damage. Neuromas can occur anywhere in the body. In the feet, the most common type of neuroma is a Morton's neuroma which develops between the third and fourth toes.
Causes of Neuromas
Common causes of podiatric neuromas include:
Participating in activities involving repetitive irritation to the ball of the foot, such as running or court sports, over an extended period of time
Injury or trauma
Pre-existing foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, and flat arches
Repeated, frequent, long-term wearing of high heeled shoes with cramped, pointed toe boxes
Symptoms of Neuromas
Typically, the symptoms of a Morton's neuroma - numbness, tingling, burning, or other odd sensations - begin gradually. At first, they may be triggered by wearing certain shoes or doing certain activities. They might abate when you take off your shoes or stop doing whatever you were doing. In time, you'll notice the symptoms lasting longer and becoming more intense as the neuroma enlarges and the temporary irritation to the nerve becomes permanent damage.
Treatment of Neuromas
The treatment for your Morton's neuroma will depend on the severity of the problem. Because neuromas are progressive, the sooner your neuroma is diagnosed, the more likely it is that it will respond to non-surgical options. These include icing, orthotics, activity modifications, a change to more appropriate footwear, over the counter or prescription medications, and injection therapy. For patients whose neuromas do not respond to these treatments, surgery can be the most appropriate course of action.
If you notice Morton's neuroma symptoms, or any other changes in the look and feel of your feet, it's best to visit the foot doctor's office as soon as possible. With years of specialized training and experience, your podiatrist is the best-qualified professional to diagnose and treat issues of the feet, ankles, and lower legs.
Are you experiencing symptoms of Morton's neuroma? Is foot pain interfering with your ability to stand or walk?
Contact James C. Ricketti, DPM and let us address all your foot and ankle needs. Our board-certified podiatrist will tailor treatments based on your individual needs and with our state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options, we’ll help you get back on your feet in no time! Call our office today at 609-587-1674 to make an appointment at our conveniently located Hamilton, NJ office.