Neuroma Specialist

What is a neuroma?

A neuroma is essentially a benign nerve tumor that causes significant pain. It typically occurs between your third and fourth toes and leads to pain when walking.

Abnormal growth of nerve tissue forms a neuroma. Neuromas have many different causes, including flat feet or high arches. Other possible factors contributing to this condition include:

• Trauma or injury to the nerve
• Repeated stress on the area
• High-heel shoes or narrow footwear
• Bunions and hammertoes

A neuroma that forms between your third and fourth toes is referred to as Morton’s neuroma.

What are the symptoms of a neuroma?

A neuroma often causes pain, especially in the ball of your foot. You may also experience other symptoms, including:

• Pain between your toes
• Feeling as though you’re stepping on something hard
• Numbness and tingling in your foot
• Swelling between your toes

You may notice a burning feeling, especially in the ball of your foot, that radiates to your toes. Although it may feel like there’s a pebble under your foot, there’s usually no outward sign of a neuroma.

How are neuromas diagnosed?

To diagnose a neuroma, Dr. Guan performs a thorough examination of your foot. He manipulates your foot to try to reproduce the pain you’re feeling.

Dr. Guan inspects in between your toes and feels for any prominent lumps or deformities to rule out other causes of the pain. He may order imaging studies to find any other contributing conditions.

What are the treatments for a neuroma?

Neuromas are treatable, and your treatment depends on the severity of your symptoms. Typically, nonsurgical treatments are enough to ease your symptoms. Dr. Guan recommends therapies such as:

• Rest
• Ice
• Shoe modifications
• Orthotics
• Over-the-counter medications
• Injections

In many cases, these treatments are enough to reduce your pain. However, if your symptoms continue despite conservative measures, Dr. Guan recommends surgical intervention. He may need to remove the nerve entirely or clean the area around the nerve to give it some space.

If you’re showing symptoms of Morton's neuroma, call the office in San Jose, California, today, or book a consultation on the website using the convenient scheduling tool.