Causes of Neuroma

Although the cause of neuroma is unknown, there are some factors that have been proven to contribute to the condition. They are as follows:

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Biomechanical Deformities

Deformities such as flat feet or high arches have been known to contribute to the development of the condition.  People who have bunions or hammertoes are also at higher risk of developing Morton’s neuroma.  

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Trauma

Trauma can occur from one-time activities but may also come from continued activities or sports.  

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Improper Footwear

Wearing high-heeled shoes or shoes that are tight or ill-fitting can place extra pressure on your toes and the balls of your feet. This pressure can contribute to the development of a neuroma.  Many people experience relief simply by switching to lower-heeled shoes with wide toe boxes.  Occasionally, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary.  Most foot and ankle specialists will usually recommend conservative treatments first, such as changing footwear, moving to surgery only if the more conservative treatments are not helpful.

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Repeated Stress

Participating in high-impact athletic activities such as jogging or running may affect repetitive trauma to your feet. Similarly, any sport that features tight shoes, such as rock climbing or snow skiing, may place undue pressure on your toes. Any activity that exerts repetitive stress on your feet, such as a job that requires you to be on your feet, on hard surfaces, all day, will add to the risk.

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What to Watch For

There are no outward signs of this condition, such as a lump or protrusion. Instead, you may simply feel as if you are standing on a pebble, have a sharp object inside your shoe, or experience a burning pain in the ball of the foot that radiates to the toes.  Another symptom is a tingling or numbness in your toes.  

There are multiple conditions that may cause a tingling or numbness in your toes.  Tight footwear can cause tingling and/or numbness in the toes. It’s best not to ignore any foot pain that lasts longer than a few days.  If you are experiencing a burning pain in the ball of your foot that is not improving, despite changing in your footwear and modifying your activities, it may be time to see a doctor.    

Morton’s neuroma seems to occur in response to irritation, pressure, or injury to one of the nerves that lead to your toes. If making these changes does not provide relief, your doctor may suggest further treatment to reduce the pain and inflammation.  Your doctor may recommend diagnostic procedures such as an MRI, ultrasound, or x-ray, or give you a cortisone shot.

Need a doctor who can help you get your Neuroma pain under control?  Call Diablo Foot and Ankle today to schedule an appointment. Our medical specialists have plenty of experience in their field. Let us help you. 

Neuroma, also known as Morton’s Neuroma or simply referred to as a pinched nerve, can be an extremely painful condition. A neuroma in the foot often begins between the third and fourth toes on the foot. A neuroma in the foot is caused by the benign growth of nerve tissues. As the tissues grow and become impacted upon each other, the pain can increase with time. Foot neuromas are found more commonly in women and are initially described as being much like having a rock in the shoe. Most people find relief from the pain when they first notice the neuroma by removing the sock and shoe and rubbing the affected area.