Neuromas
Your body is comprised of several major systems that work in conjunction to ensure that everything is going as it should. The one system that essentially ties everything together is your nervous system. Your nerves play an instrumental role in sending information to and from your brain. As with any form of communication, this is most effective when the lines are open. When neuromas form, though, this can lead to either an inability to transmit information or an outright blockage of the communication channel.
What is a Neuroma?
A neuroma is a pinched nerve in feet, or potentially an enlarged, benign growth of nerves. The exact cause of this condition can be unclear, but a variety of factors may contribute to their formation, including improper or ill-fitting footwear, repetitive stress on the feet, biomechanical deformities, or even trauma that leads to swelling and nerve pain.
What Symptoms Should I Look For?
Being able to identify the symptoms of neuromas will help you know when to schedule an appointment with Waukesha Foot Specialists. Any time you experience pain or discomfort in your foot, something is wrong and you should find out what that might be. If your pain is localized in the forefoot region and between your toes, it is possible that you have developed a neuroma. Other signs include swelling between your toes, the sensation of thickness in that area, tingling or numbness in the ball of your foot, and pain in the ball of your foot when you place weight upon it.
Are There Home Treatment Methods?
Until you are able to come in for an appointment at our office, there are some home treatment options that will help provide relief, including:
- Resting, massaging, and icing the impacted area to improve comfort by reducing the neuroma pain.
- Avoid wearing high-heeled shoes that are more than two inches tall. This type of footwear can place undue pressure and strain on your forefoot.
- Wear shoes that have thick, shock absorbent soles, offer room for your toes to move, and have insoles that provide cushion and will keep absorb the pressure on your feet.
What Can Your Waukesha Podiatrist Do?
Identifying neuromas early in their development is key for avoiding surgery, so it is essential that you schedule an appointment as soon as you become aware of symptoms. As we examine the affected foot, which will likely entail an X-ray of the area, a clearer picture of your particular situation will emerge. At this point, we will begin developing a treatment plan that is focused on relieving the pressure.
Treatment will often center on relieving pressure in the area of your neuroma so as to allow the pinched nerved to decompress. This may entail using supports, foot pads, or custom orthotics prepared by our office to achieve the desired condition. We will always exhaust conservative methods first, but surgery may become an option for dealing with this ailment.
Can They Be Prevented?
The best preventative measures for this condition are centered on making sure that you choose properly-fitting footwear, especially when you are going to be active or spend a great deal of time on your feet. Spending prolonged time in shoes that feature a narrow toe box or have excessive heel height can contribute to the formation of a neuroma, so avoid doing so and opt for comfortable styles. Also, choose footwear that has adequate cushioning, or pick up an insert that serves this function.
Waukesha Foot Specialists is your expert source for providing effective relief from the symptoms of neuromas. We offer professional diagnoses and effective treatment for any foot or ankle issue that might give you difficulty. Subscribe to our newsletter to learn more about issues that affect you, or schedule an appointment with our Waukesha, WI office by calling (262) 544-0700. You can also contact us online!