You’ve Lost That Lovely Feeling, Part II

In continuing last weeks blog discussion on neurological disorders of the foot we should discuss neuromas. It is a very common condition we see in our offices. A neuroma occurs when there is inflammation of a nerve sheath, which is the protective covering for your nerves. You could think of this like speaker wire. If you pull 2 speaker wires apart, that sheath that makes them one wire splits into 2. The usual suspect for causing a neuroma is actually structurally based. Bones can rub together and impinge on a nerve, or severe pronation can cause a shift of your foot bones that will rub on the nerve as well. The most common hotspot for a neuroma is between the 3rd and 4th toes. This condition has its own name being a Morton’s neuroma.

Patients with a neuroma will complain possibly of a burning or tingling sensation and say it feels like they are walking on a rock rolled up in their sock. There may also be a popping or clicking sound heard which is the nerve rolling between the bones of the foot. I know this sounds pretty painful, and it is, but it’s comforting to know there are treatments and preventions. The best way to prevent a neuroma is to make sure your foot is structurally sound. This includes orthotics and footwear to address pronation. Make sure you have a nice wide toebox in your shoes so that your bones aren’t squished together and impinging on your nerves. Also metatarsal pads placed in the shoe to alleviate pressure on the forefoot can do a great deal of relief. Once our doctors diagnose you with a neuroma there are a number of treatments available. Anti-inflammatories can be used to reduce the pain and swelling but the doctors will also properly evaluate your foot structure to determine the underlying problem. If conservative efforts don’t work, there is surgical help that involves removing part of the nerve. To get advice on your feet, come by the Foot Associates of Central Texas.