Dr. Vincent Coda, D.P.M.
Neuromas
What are Neuromas?
Commonly called a Morton's neuroma, this problem begins when the outer coating of a nerve in your foot thickens. This thickening is usually caused by irritation that results when two bones repeatedly rub together (often due to ill-fitting shoes or abnormal bone movement). The area between the third and fourth toes is the most commonly affected; the area between the second and their toes is another common irritation point. Nerve problems due to diabetes or alcoholism may also cause neuroma-like symptoms.
Symptoms
The pain from neuromas may start gradually, causing burning, tingling, cramping, or numbness. Symptoms often occur after you've been walking or standing for a period of time. It might feel like you're stepping on a lamp cord. Your may need to take your shoe off and rub your foot. In some cases, the pain radiates from the tip of the toes to the ankle.
Evaluation & Physical Exam
To help diagnose your problem and determine the best treatment for your neuroma, Dr. Coda will look at your medical history, thoroughly examine your foot, and perform any necessary tests.
Dr. Coda will talk with you about your symptoms, the frequency of your pain, and any past medical history that could involve nerve problems. Then he will examine your foot carefully, palpating (pressing) the area around the neuroma to determine the extent of your pain.
Tests
X-rays may be used to help identify a possible neuroma, or to rule out other causes of the pain. Another diagnostic test, which can also relieve pain, involves blocking the nerve by injecting anesthesia around it. Occasionally, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be done to reveal cross-sectional images of soft tissue and bone.
Treatment for Neuromas
After your evaluation, Dr. Coda will discuss treatment options with both surgical and nonsurgical methods.
Nonsurgical Methods
Orthotics - Custom shoe inserts adjust the structural support of your foot, helping to prevent irritation to the nerve.
Medication - Cortisone injections or other medication can relieve pain and swelling in the nerve's outer coating.
Surgical Methods
If nonsurgical care does not help, surgery may be necessary to remove the neuroma. A local anesthetic may be used for this procedure. The surgery may be done in Dr. Coda's office, a surgical center, or a hospital.
After Surgery Care Tips
Following your surgery, you may feel numbness (possibly permanent) in the area where the nerve was removed. Dr. Coda will tell you how soon you can be on your feet. Usually, you can return to normal activities within three to six weeks.
For more information about neuromas, or to discuss treatment options, click here for contact options.