Is Your Neuroma Slowing You Down?

Have you ever felt like you're walking with a pebble in your shoe, yet there's nothing there when you check? Or maybe you've experienced a burning sensation, numbness, or pain in the ball of your foot that just won't go away and stops you from doing the things you love. 

If these symptoms sound familiar, you might be dealing with a neuroma, specifically a Morton’s neuroma. But what exactly does that mean for you, and how can you stop your neuroma from slowing you down?

At Arlington/Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers in Arlington and Mansfield, Texas, our board-certified providers specialize in diagnosing and treating foot conditions like neuromas. We understand how foot pain can disrupt your daily activities, so we’re dedicated to helping you get back on your feet. 

With a range of treatment options and a focus on patient education, we’re here to help you understand your condition and find relief. Take a moment to learn what having Morton’s neuroma means, what steps you can take to manage symptoms, and what our team can do to help.

What is a neuroma, and how can I tell if I have one?

A Morton's neuroma is a thickening of the tissue around one of the nerves leading to your toes. It often causes pain in the ball of your foot. It can feel as though you’re standing on a fold in your sock or that pesky invisible pebble. 

This condition typically affects the area between your third and fourth toes, but symptoms can vary from person to person. The most common signs and symptoms of a neuroma in your foot include:

• Pain in the ball of your foot, frequently sharp or burning
• Numbness or tingling in your toes
• Toe spasming or separation
• A sensation of walking over an uneven surface

The pain may intensify when you walk, stand, or wear tight shoes. These symptoms are your foot signaling that something isn’t quite right, so if you’re experiencing them, don’t wait to talk to a podiatrist.

Is there a way to manage neuroma pain on my own?

Absolutely! There are several lifestyle changes and at-home therapies you can try to reduce or even avoid neuroma pain. Here’s a closer look at your options and how they help:

Choose the right footwear

Opt for shoes with a wide-toe box and avoid high heels. This gives your toes more room and reduces pressure on the neuroma.

Use padded insoles

Padded insoles help ease pressure and distribute your weight more evenly when you walk, giving you a break from the pain associated with your neuroma.

Rest and ice

Sometimes, your feet just need a break, so try taking it easy. Remember that certain physical activities, like long-distance running or high-impact sports, worsen symptoms, so do your best to avoid these.  

It can also help to apply cold or ice packs to the affected area to help reduce swelling and pain and manage other neuroma symptoms.

Stretching exercises

Gentle stretching can relieve pressure on the nerve and strengthen the foot muscles.

What if at-home therapies aren’t enough?

The above strategies can effectively manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. However, if you've tried these methods and your symptoms persist, it might be time to consult a specialist.

Our team at Arlington/Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers is committed to exploring different possible treatments to ensure we provide you with the best solution for your neuroma pain. To that end, we offer a range of therapies to meet your specific needs. 

We believe in a holistic approach, considering all factors of your lifestyle and health to create a personalized treatment plan. Depending on your symptoms and the severity of the neuroma, your customized neuroma treatment plan may include:

Prescription orthotics

Customized shoe inserts, or orthotics, are designed to take the pressure off the effective nerve and make it easier for you to carry on with your day-to-day activities. 

Medication

Your podiatrist can recommend the right dose or type of over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription anti-inflammatory medications to help reduce swelling and pain.

Corticosteroid injections

These injections can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation around the nerve.

Surgery

In cases where conservative treatments haven’t provided relief, surgery to remove the neuroma or release the tissue around the nerve can be an option.

Are you ready to say goodbye to foot pain associated with your Morton’s neuroma and hello to a more active, pain-free life? Contact Arlington/Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers today to schedule your appointment at the location nearest you.