A Morton’s Neuroma is a painful condition, also referred to as a “pinched nerve” or a nerve tumor. It is a benign growth of nerve tissue frequently found between the third and fourth toes that bring on pain, burning sensation, tingling, and/or numbness between the toes and in the ball of the foot.
Benign nerve tumor of the foot.
The principal symptom associated with a neuroma is pain between the toes while walking. Those suffering from the condition often find relief by stopping their walk, taking off their shoe, and rubbing the affected area. At times, patient will describe the pain as similar to having a stone in his or her shoe. Neuroma can occur in adults of all age groups although it occurs more often in women than men. It usually affects one foot but may affect both. It most commonly occurs between the 3rd and 4th metatarsals.
Symptoms
- Pain in the forefoot and between the toes (usually 3rd and 4th).
- Tingling and/or numbness in the ball of the foot.
- Swelling between the toes.
- Pain in the ball of the foot when weight bearing
For more information regarding neuroma in general or conservative treatments, please refer to the Morton’s Neuroma page.
When Is Surgery Indicated?
When conservative therapy has failed to provide adequate relief of symptoms or conservative treatment options are impractical.
In certain cases, removal of nerve tumor is necessary to relief pain.
What is involved in Neuroma Surgery?
Surgery is performed under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis. The procedure involves removing the inflamed and enlarged nerve with average recovery time of a few weeks. Generally neuroma surgery allows for early weight bearing and protection in some type of surgical shoe for 3 to 4 weeks. Prior to surgery, Dr. Wang will thoroughly describe the surgical procedure in detail and discuss post-operative course and expectations. Pain after surgery can be managed by the medications prescribed by Dr. Wang. Some neuromas may recur, but this is rare.
If you have exhausted all sorts of conservative treatment for neuroma and would like to discuss further options such surgery, contact our office for a surgical consultation with Dr. Wang today.