Morton’s neuroma
is the most common type of nerve tumor in the foot. This tumor is
a benign traumatic enlargement of a nerve in the ball of the foot. It
can be caused by injury, but usually is the result of faulty foot
function or structure. These factors can generate frequent irritation to
the nerve and subsequently cause an enlargement of that nerve, commonly
called a neuroma.
Frequently a neuroma causes a burning pain localized in the ball of the
foot. This burning sensation may sometimes change to a "pins and
needles" type of tingling feeling that may travel into the toe, or back
into the entire foot. The most typical symptom is severe pain in the
ball of the foot suddenly while you are walking, which may go into the
middle toes. If you stop walking, take off your shoe and massage your
foot, the pain usually will ease after several minutes.
If you suffer from these symptoms, it is advisable to see your
podiatrist. After a careful examination to determine the cause of the
pain, the foot specialist will be able to prescribe the proper program
of treatment. This may include conservative measures such as an
injection to calm down the nerve inflammation or orthotics to reduce the
chronic irritation.
In severe cases in which the neuroma does not respond to conservative
treatment, removal of the nerve tumor may be necessary to obtain relief.
This is a minor surgical procedure often performed in the podiatrist's
office.
Can podiatric care help relieve the pain in your foot? We make it easy
for you to find out. Here's how....
The physicians and staff of the A Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Centers
maintain two complete podiatric clinical facilities and provide
24-hour emergency service. We participate in most health plans including
Blue Cross / Blue Shield, Medicare, and Medicaid. We complete and file
all necessary insurance forms and make every effort to assure you of
maximum benefits with minimum out-of-pocket expense.
You are invited to make an appointment today to relieve your foot
problems by calling us at 970-493-4660 or 970-667-0769.
