3 Telltale Signs That You Have a Neuroma

A neuroma is sometimes called a pinched nerve or a nerve tumor. It happens when nerve tissue becomes thickened. In your feet, the most common site for a neuroma is between your third and fourth toes. Dr. Michael Tran and his team at AllCare Foot & Ankle Center in Arlington and Dallas, Texas, offer effective treatments for a neuroma. 

In this post, we describe the three most common symptoms when you have a neuroma. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, we may be able to help you understand why and offer treatment to ease your discomfort. 

1. Pain

Many different conditions that affect your feet cause pain. With a neuroma, the pain is usually described as a burning sensation, although some people say it feels like they have a rock in their shoe, even when they are barefoot. 

The pain is often between your toes or the ball of your foot. It likely hurts more when you put weight on your foot. 

Women are much more likely than men to have a neuroma. If you’re between 30 and 60, you also have a higher risk of developing a neuroma. 

2. Swelling

Swelling is your body’s response to many different problems, including fractures. It’s also common when you have a neuroma. Swelling as a result of a neuroma is likely to be between your toes.

3. Unusual sensations

Since a neuroma affects your nerves, and nerves send signals to your brain, it’s not surprising that you may feel unusual sensations. Pain, of course, is common, but you may also feel numbness or tingling for no apparent reason. 

You may also feel as if there’s a pebble or small rock in your shoe even when walking barefoot. Another common sensation is a feeling of burning. 

How we can help

Getting treatment earlier means faster relief of your symptoms, and healthy feet allow you to enjoy an active lifestyle. To diagnose a neuroma, Dr. Tran conducts a thorough exam, discusses your symptoms with you, and may perform diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays. 

Depending on your diagnosis, medical history, and other factors, Dr. Tran may recommend: 

• Steroid injections to reduce inflammation
• Physical therapy
• Orthotics
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Surgery

We can also advise on what sorts of shoes may contribute to or relieve your condition. We recommend that everyone wear shoes with a wide toe box and low heels for good foot health. 

If you’d like to learn more about neuromas and how to treat them, schedule an appointment at AllCare Foot & Ankle Center today. You can arrange an appointment at either of our two locations by contacting us online or by phone.