Neuromas are becoming more common in Colorado Springs, Colorado, like in many parts of the world. It’s a condition that affects the nerves and can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the feet. It is often caused by compression of the nerve fibers and can be very painful. In most cases, Colorado Springs neuroma specialists will try conservative treatment first, such as physical therapy.
What Causes Neuroma?
A neuroma can be caused by several factors, including injury to the foot, hereditary conditions, tumors or other growths on the nerve, and certain health conditions. Some of the most common causes include:
- Compression – any pressure on the affected nerve can cause a neuroma. It often arises from too-tight shoes, bones in the toes, and nerve entrapment.
- Infection – certain bacteria can infect a nerve and cause a neuroma to develop.
- Ciguatoxin – this toxin comes from fish that have been contaminated with algae. It is most common in tropical waters where people eat raw or undercooked fish.
- Trauma – a severe injury can cause a neuroma to the foot.
- Hereditary neuropathy – certain inherited conditions make people more likely to develop a neuroma.
How is the Neuroma Treatment?
A neuroma is treated with surgery in most cases. The surgeon will remove the portion of the nerve that has become enlarged due to compression or other factors.
Several nonsurgical treatments can treat neuroma, including:
Medications
Physicians may prescribe certain medications to help reduce swelling and inflammation around the nerve area affected by the neuroma. Some physicians may inject a corticosteroid (steroid) into the neuroma area to reduce inflammation.
Proper Footwear
Wearing the appropriate shoes for your feet can significantly reduce the amount of pressure placed on them, thereby reducing neuroma symptoms. Find new footwear with a broader toe box. Try to wear footwear with a flexible sole whenever possible.
Stretch the plantar fascia and calf muscles before exercising or playing sports. It may also be helpful to add arch supports, orthotics, and braces for any other conditions that may cause neuroma symptoms, such as hammertoe deformities or bunion fusion surgery.
Physical Therapy
Exercising and stretching the foot muscles can help relieve stress on the nerve. Physical therapists are trained to help patients develop an exercise plan that will work for them.
Custom Orthotics
Orthotics are devices that are designed to fix foot function problems. They can be accommodating in relieving stress on the feet and preventing neuroma from developing. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may benefit from custom orthotics:
- Pain in the ball of the foot
- Numbness or tingling in the toes
- Swelling around the toes
- Reduced range of motion
Can Neuroma Be Prevented?
There are several ways to prevent neuroma from developing or help keep neuroma from getting worse. It includes wearing the correct size shoes and avoiding standing or walking barefoot on cold surfaces. Remember to stretch and exercise your feet to keep them healthy regularly.
A neuroma is a condition that affects the nerves and can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the feet. It is often caused by compression of the nerve fibers and can be very painful. However, there are a few nonsurgical treatments that may help to relieve symptoms. It’s crucial to learn several ways to prevent neuroma from developing or help keep neuroma from getting worse.
