Pain in the foot can be unbearable, especially if the cause of the pain is unlikely to improve on its own. In many cases of Morton’s neuroma, patients will suffer with the condition for months, constantly feeling as if they are walking with a pebble in their shoe. As the neuroma grows, patients may experience sharp burning pain under the ball of the foot, eventually leading them to consider surgery.
Early Treatment Helps Avoid Neuroma Surgery
Not all patients who develop a neuroma will need foot surgery. If you have pain between the third and fourth toes, you should see a podiatrist as soon as possible. Early intervention can relieve the underlying pressure causing the neuroma, allowing the inflamed nerve to heal on its own.
Before recommending surgery, we always attempt conservative treatment methods for neuroma, such as:
- Footwear changes. A neuroma forms when nerves are pinched between the bones in the foot, causing uncomfortable swelling. A simple change of shoes is often enough to stop the pain of a neuroma, especially for patients who regularly wear high heels or shoes that squeeze the toes.
- Orthotic devices. The mechanics of the foot can play a role in whether a neuroma may be likely to occur (or come back once it has been treated). Patients whose arches are too high or too low may naturally place more weight on the ball of the foot, making neuromas more likely. Custom orthotics can redirect the impact of footfalls, absorbing the force and relieving the pain.
- Pain relief. Once the root cause has been identified, patients may need pain medications or injections to help them through the healing process.
Whether you require nonsurgical treatment or surgery to relieve the pain in your foot, the foot and ankle specialists at Greater Washington Advanced Podiatry are here to help. We offer free initial consultations to determine the cause of the problem, and create a customized treatment plan to get you back on your feet as soon as possible. Simply fill out our online contact form or call us at (301) 515-FEET to set up your first visit.
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