Neuromas

A neuroma is a painful swelling of a nerve, usually in the ball of the foot. The most common type of neuroma is called a Morton’s neuroma, which generally occurs between the third and fourth toes. The thickening of the nerve is a result of repetitive compression and irritation of the nerve. Symptoms include pain, burning, tingling or numbness of one or more toes, a feeling that there is something in the shoe like a pebble, or the sock is bunched up, and a popping sensation when walking. Pain is often soothed by rest or massaging the foot. Treatment for neuromas typically involves a combination of cortisone steroids and orthotic inserts. Other treatments may include medication, physical therapy, alcohol injections, and surgery.