Neuroma Explained: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

A neuroma is a benign (non-cancerous) thickening of nerve tissue that often develops due to chronic pressure, irritation, or injury affecting peripheral nerves. Although the term may sound intimidating, it doesn’t mean there’s a cancerous tumor present. Rather, we’re dealing with a reactive, often painful bundle of nerve fibers that has become inflamed or disrupted.

In most clinical cases, patients experience sharp, burning pain or a tingling, electric sensation where the neuroma has formed. At South Florida Multispecialty Hospital, we regularly help patients overcome this condition with personalized diagnostics and modern treatment plans.

Types of Neuroma: Morton’s Neuroma and Beyond

Among the different types, Morton’s neuroma is by far the most common, typically forming between the third and fourth toes. It’s frequently associated with wearing tight shoes or engaging in high-impact activities like running.

Other types include:

• Traumatic neuroma: occurs after an injury or surgical procedure disrupting the nerve.
• Acoustic neuroma: a very different entity affecting the vestibular nerve leading from your inner ear to the brain. This type causes symptoms like hearing loss and balance issues.

For our focus here, we’ll center on peripheral neuromas, especially those affecting the feet and limbs.

Causes and Risk Factors of Neuroma

Neuromas usually develop when nerves endure prolonged stress or direct trauma. Over time, repetitive injury causes thickening and irritation.

Here are common contributing factors:

• Poorly fitting footwear (e.g., narrow or high-heeled shoes)
• Foot deformities like bunions or hammertoes
• Repetitive stress from athletics (especially running or ballet)
• Direct trauma to nerve tissue
• Medical history of diabetes or neuropathy
• Previous surgery near a nerve

We’re often able to trace neuroma formation back to lifestyle or biomechanical causes, which is why early lifestyle modifications can be incredibly effective.

Common Symptoms and How Neuroma Affects Daily Life

The hallmark symptom of a neuroma is pain. It typically follows a pattern depending on which nerve is affected.

• Burning pain in the ball of the foot that radiates to the toes
• Tingling or numbness
• A sensation like “a pebble in the shoe”
• Pain that worsens with walking, standing, or wearing tight shoes

Left untreated, neuromas can significantly impact daily life. We’ve encountered patients who adjusted their gait to avoid discomfort, only to later develop hip or back pain. Ignoring nerve pain early often introduces new complications down the road.

How Neuroma Is Diagnosed: Tests and Imaging Techniques

Diagnosing a neuroma is a hands-on process. We start with a physical exam to evaluate foot structure, tender areas, and nerve distribution symptoms.

To confirm and localize the neuroma, we may use:

• Ultrasound: Can visualize nerve enlargement or surrounding tissue disruptions.
• MRI: Offers greater detail, especially helpful for deeper neuromas or complex anatomy.
• Clinical tests: Such as squeezing the foot to reproduce symptoms (Mulder’s sign).

Accurate diagnosis means we can initiate treatment as early and precisely as possible.

Exploring Treatment Options: From Conservative Care to Surgery

Not every neuroma needs surgery. In fact, most patients improve significantly with conservative care.

Here’s how we approach treatment:

1. Footwear Modification: Switching to wider shoes with cushioned soles is often the first step.
2. Orthotic Inserts: Custom insoles reduce pressure on the affected nerve.
3. Physical Therapy: Strengthens supporting musculature and reduces biomechanical strain.
4. Medications: NSAIDs reduce inflammation and pain.
5. Corticosteroid Injections: Can help reduce nerve inflammation directly at the source.

If symptoms persist for 6–12 months despite conservative care, we may consider:

• Radiofrequency ablation: Use of targeted energy to desensitize the nerve.
• Neurectomy: Surgical removal of the neuroma-affected nerve segment.

Surgical recovery usually includes short-term immobilization followed by rehabilitative therapy. Importantly, success rates for surgery are high, particularly when addressed early.

The Role of Rehabilitation and Recovery

After treatment, especially surgery, most patients benefit from a structured rehabilitation plan. We work closely with our physical therapy team to focus on:

• Gradual weight-bearing exercises
• Muscle strengthening
• Gait re-training to ensure proper walking patterns

With commitment and support, full recovery is achievable for the majority of patients.

Tips for Managing Neuroma Pain at Home

We always aim to empower our patients with self-care strategies. If you’re managing symptoms or recovering post-treatment, here are valuable tips:

• Switch to roomy, soft-soled footwear
• Limit walking barefoot on hard floors
• Use cold compresses to reduce swelling
• Avoid high-impact activities temporarily
• Perform daily stretches to improve nerve health

Consistency in these measures often forms the foundation for successful recovery.

When to Seek Medical Care for Neuroma

Pain that persists for more than a few weeks, especially when it disrupts routine activity, calls for medical evaluation. Early diagnosis of a neuroma can prevent further nerve damage and sidestep potential complications like chronic neuropathic pain.

Don’t wait until conservative efforts at home fail. Our specialists at South Florida Multispecialty Hospital provide comprehensive diagnostics designed for early intervention and long-term relief.

If you’re experiencing foot pain, burning sensations, or nerve discomfort, we encourage you to reach out. Contact South Florida Multispecialty Hospital to schedule a comprehensive neuroma evaluation and get back on your feet, pain free.