A neuroma is a thickening of nerve tissue that may develop in various parts of the body. The most common neuroma in the foot is a Morton’s neuroma, which occurs between the third and fourth toes. It is sometimes referred to as an intermetatarsal neuroma.

The thickening of the nerve that defines a neuroma is the result of compression and irritation of the nerve. This compression creates enlargement of the nerve, eventually leading to permanent nerve damage.

One of the most common causes of a neuroma is wearing shoes that have a tapered toe box. People with certain foot deformities—bunions, hammertoes, flatfeet or more flexible feet—are at higher risk for developing a neuroma. Other potential causes are activities that involve repetitive irritation to the ball of the foot, such as running or court sports. An injury or other type of trauma to the area may also lead to a neuroma.

The best time to see your foot and ankle doctor is early in the development of symptoms. Early diagnosis of a Morton’s neuroma greatly lessens the need for more invasive treatments and may help you avoid surgery.

In developing a treatment plan, your foot and ankle doctor will first determine how long you have had the neuroma and will evaluate its stage of development. Treatment approaches vary according to the severity of the problem.

Surgery may be considered in patients who have not responded adequately to nonsurgical treatments. Your foot doctor will determine the approach that is best for your condition. The length of the recovery period will vary depending on the procedure performed.

Here at Dearborn Foot and Ankle, we are specialized in the treatment of a wide variety of foot and ankle conditions.

Come see us, we will be happy to go over your treatment options.

Contact us today for an appointment or to learn more.