4 Simple Treatments for a Foot Neuroma

A neuroma is a nerve condition that is sometimes described as feeling like you have a stone in your shoe. In the case of Morton’s neuroma, a thick growth forms around a nerve between the third and fourth toes contributing to numbness and tingling sensations. Shoes like high heels that push the toes together are often the culprit for many foot problems, including neuromas.

4 simple treatments for a foot neuroma may consist of the following:

1. Wear the right shoes with custom orthotic inserts—Properly fitted shoes with custom orthotic inserts are essential to treat and prevent many foot problems including neuromae. Your shoes need to be supportive yet comfortable and should have a wide toe box to give your toes room to stretch a little. Orthotic inserts are used to shift pressure away from the ball area while it heals.
2. Switch to another activity—Stopping the activity that is increasing symptoms in the affected foot will often help. Try switching to swimming or cycling to reduce pressure on the ball of the foot while it heals.
3. Reduce pain and swelling—You can reduce swelling and pain in the ball of the foot by applying an ice pack for ten minutes several times a day. OTC medications like ibuprofen or Tylenol will also help.
4. Steroid medications—Corticosteroid medicine can be injected into the affected area to provide immediate relief. Steroids may have side effects so check with your foot doctor.

If you are experiencing symptoms of a foot neuroma, consult with your podiatrist for the proper diagnosis and treatment protocols. The foot experts at Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists, in the Tucson, Oro Valley, and Green Valley areas of Pima County, Arizona, have unparalleled experience in treating all aspects of foot and ankle care. Our team of doctors: Christopher M. Funk, D.P.M., FACFAS, Bradley A. Whitaker, D.P.M., FACFAS, and Peter C. Merrill, D.P.M., AACFAS, and Zeno Pfau, D.P.M., is dedicated to serving you with state-of-the-art, cutting edge medical technologies including the PinPointe FootLaser, custom-fitted orthotics, and Radial Pulse Therapy (RPT) for chronic foot, heel, or ankle pain. If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, please call (520) 575-0800.