Do you have pain, burning or tingling between your toes? You might have a neuroma. Dr. Mathew John, your Marietta, GA podiatrist, 
shares some information about the condition.
What is a neuroma?
A neuroma is an overgrowth of nerve tissue between your toes. Luckily, the growth is not cancerous. Neuromas can develop between any of your toes but most commonly occur between the third and fourth toes.
How can I tell if I have a neuroma?
If you have a neuroma, you may experience:
- Pain between the toes or at the base of your toes that increases when you walk or put pressure on the foot
- Swelling between your toes
- A popping sound when you walk
- The feeling that you're walking on a stone
- Numbness or tingling in the ball of your foot
What causes neuromas?
It's not always possible to determine the cause of a neuroma, but they can occur due to:
- Trauma: A foot injury can damage the nerve, causing it swell.
- Arch Problems: An arch that's too high or too low can increase your risk of a neuroma. Arch issues and other biomechanical problems can make your foot unstable, particularly around the joints of your toes.
- Hammertoes and Bunions: Hammertoes and bunions put you at increased risk of developing a neuroma.
- Tight Shoes: Neuromas can occur if you wear tight shoes or high heels. They're particularly common in women.
- Stress: Repetitive stress is a risk factor for the condition. If you're a runner, play sports that put extreme pressure on your feet or participate in sports that require tight shoes, you may develop neuromas.
How can I ease my pain in Marietta?
Wearing roomy shoes that provide plenty of cushioning is important if you have a neuroma. High-heeled shoes should be avoided because they put too much pressure on your toes. Ice, over-the-counter pain medication and foot massages can be helpful.
If your pain doesn't improve, your foot doctor can help you by teaching you how to pad and tape your foot to reduce symptoms. Orthotics, prescription shoe inserts that properly position your foot to reduce stress and pressure can also be helpful. If over-the-counter medications don't relieve your pain, your foot doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or may recommend cortisone injections. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove the inflamed nerve.
Don't ignore neuroma pain. Your podiatrist offers effective treatments that can get you back on your feet again. Call Dr. John, your Marietta, GA podiatrist, at (770) 977-3668 to schedule an appointment.