| Pinched Nerves |
General Information |
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A neuroma is a swollen or damaged nerve that runs between the bones
that your toes attach to on the foot. It is a benign condition most
commonly found between the third and fourth toes. |
Causes of a Neuroma |
Pinching of the nerves from tight shoes or repetitive stress can cause
irritation to damage of the nerves that run towards our toes. Sometimes
trauma can damage the nerves, as well. |
Symptoms of a Neuroma |
The most common complaints with neuromas are cramping, tingling, or
numbness. Sometimes, these symptoms can go from the ball of the foot
to the toes or from the ball of the foot to the ankle. Feeling like
the sock is bunched up can also be a sign of a neuroma. |
Tight shoes usually aggravate symptoms. However, any kind of bending
of the toes or stepping the wrong way when barefoot can also cause
the same symptoms. If the neuroma becomes large enough, you may even
feel a clicking sensation or a lump in the ball of your foot. |
We are now using sonography of the foot to confirm the diagnosis and
to aid in the location of the nerve damage so that treatment can be
directed at the exact location of trouble. |
Treatment |
Early treatment may include one or more of the following:
• Roomier or specially constructed shoes
• Orthotics
(inserts) for the shoes
• Anti-inflammatory medicines
• Cortisone injections
• Alcohol sclerosing injections
If these methods fail, then surgery may be suggested. This involves
removal of the damaged nerve tissue. However, we have been using dehydrated alcohol injected into the nerve (with ultrasonic guidance when indicated)
to chemically destroy the nerve without surgery. This has been a fantastic
way to treat damaged nerves without the disability of surgery. Our patients walk in and walk out
without any change in their routine.
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