Neuromas are swelling or thickening of the nerve near its insertion. This is usually caused by irritation, trauma, or pressure from a shoe. The resulting pressure can cause pain and discomfort to the foot. Pain may also radiate into the leg, shin, or knee. In most cases, neuroma symptoms are mild and do not require medical attention. However, in severe cases of Fort Worth neuroma, it may become inflamed and painful, leading to swelling and discoloration of the skin.
Below are the causes of neuroma.
Bunions
Bunions are a common cause of neuromas. They are caused by overpronation of the foot, which causes the ball of the big toe to flatten against the shoe sole or other structure in your shoe. This can also be caused by wearing shoes that don’t fit properly or have poor arch support.
Hammertoes
Hammertoes are caused by the abnormal stretching of the plantar fascia (the ligament that extends from the heel to the toes). This can result from prolonged standing, walking on hard surfaces, or wearing tight shoes or boots. The pain is usually felt during and after exercise when stretching your foot.
Plantar Fibromatosis
Plantar fibromatosis is a benign tumor that develops on the bottom of your foot. It can cause pain, swelling, inflammation, and numbness in your toes. The condition usually occurs when you are between 20 and 40 years old but can occur at any age. Various other conditions may also be associated with plantar fibromatosis, including diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus.
High heels
Wearing high heels can also cause a neuroma. The foot is a complex structure with a lot of pressure. When you wear high heels, this puts extra pressure on your feet and ankles. This can cause inflammation in your nerves and blood vessels, which leads to swelling and pain.
What is the best treatment for neuroma?
Physical therapy
The best treatment for a neuroma is physical therapy. The neuromuscular therapist will work with you on exercises that will strengthen the area around the nerve. This will help to prevent further damage and allow the nerve to heal itself.
Surgery
Surgery may be necessary if the nerve can’t be repaired or if it does not heal without surgery. If surgery is needed, there are two options. These include partial or complete removal of the nerve. Partial neuroma removal involves only part of a nerve being removed, while complete neuroma removal involves removing all of the nerves causing foot problems.
Ice
Ice is another option for treating neuroma. Ice can reduce swelling in your foot and temporarily relieve pain from a neuroma. However, ice should only be used for short periods, especially if you have chronic pain from neuroma or another condition, such as arthritis in your foot.
Neuroma pain can be caused by pressure from your foot sliding around in your shoe, too much arch in your shoe, or even by walking on uneven ground. If you are having trouble finding relief from the pain of a neuroma, you may want to discuss this with Trinity Foot & Ankle Specialists.