Neuroma

A neuroma is a common but painful foot problem, affecting up to 1 in 3 people at some time in life. At Advanced Footcare & Sports Medicine, on the East Side of Manhattan in New York City, board-certified podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon Robert Maccabee, DPM, offers conservative, hands-on care for neuromas. His knowledge and expertise can provide near-instant relief, ensuring you can return to your favorite activities. Call Advanced Footcare & Sports Medicine today to schedule an appointment, or book your visit online. 

The ball of my foot hurts. Could it be a neuroma?

A neuroma, or Morton’s neuroma, is a harmless nerve tumor that forms in the ball of the foot. It occurs when one or more interdigital nerves between the toes thicken or swell. As the neuroma grows, it causes pain and inflammation, affecting mobility and quality of life. 

What are the symptoms of a neuroma?

Neuroma symptoms include:

• Pain between your toes
• Swelling between your toes
• Tingling or numbness at the front of your foot
• Pain that’s worse when wearing high heels or standing on your tiptoes
• Feeling like your sock is bunched up in your shoe
• The sensation that a small marble is in the ball of your foot

Neuroma symptoms develop slowly but worsen over time. At first, for example, you might notice pain that improves when you remove your shoes and socks. However, as the nerve tumor grows, the pain becomes more persistent.

How does a board-certified podiatrist diagnose a neuroma?

Dr. Maccabee reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including when the pain occurs, what it feels like, and if it’s worse when you wear certain shoes, like high heels.

Next, he examines the ball of your foot, gently pressing on it to identify sensitive areas. Dr. Maccabee places mild pressure on the area between your toe bones and asks you to walk around and stand on your tiptoes.

How does a board-certified podiatrist treat a neuroma?

At Advanced Footcare & Sports Medicine, Dr. Maccabee treats neuromas using a conservative, hands-on approach. He might suggest:

• Wearing wide shoes to take pressure off the nerve tumor
• Shoe pads to cushion your forefoot
• Custom orthotics
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Icing your foot several times daily
• Corticosteroid injections
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
• Stem cell injections

You might be a candidate for surgery if your symptoms are severe and keep you from work or exercise. The most common type of neuroma surgery is a neurectomy. During this procedure, Dr. Maccabee removes the nerve tumor, relieving pain and inflammation. 

Minimally invasive surgery like a neurectomy results in less scarring and shorter hospital stays so that you can return to your routine sooner. 

To learn more about neuroma treatment, call Advanced Footcare & Sports Medicine today or book your appointment online.