Neuroma pain is caused by inflammation of the nerves in the foot. The first treatment options for this medical condition include choosing more comfortable footwear, soaking affected foot and using ice packs. Cortisone injections or prescription medications may be used. If these steps don't bring relief, surgery may be considered.
Morton's neuroma causes a sharp, stabbing pain in the foot which can also travel up the foot and into the leg. This condition occurs when the nerve between the third and fourth or second and third toes becomes enlarged. Women between the ages of 30-50 are especially at risk for this condition. The Morton's neuroma pain is noticeable when the individual is walking and subsides when he or she stops moving and takes time to massage the foot. The condition may present in both feet simultaneously.
A poor walking style or injuring the foot can also irritate the nerves, leading to neuroma pain. The condition may start off as tingling, burning or cramping in the foot. The individual may feel as if he or she has something in their shoe, but is unable to find an object upon removing the footwear.
Once the pain has been attributed to a neuroma, the first step to getting relief from this condition is to try wearing footwear that doesn't overly constrict the toes. Choosing shoes with a wide toe box may provide symptom relief. Using a foot bath to soak the foot is another option, and some people find that applying an ice pack helps. Massaging the affected area may also bring some relief.
Consulting a podiatrist is the next step for people living with neuroma pain who have not been able to control it without medication. The podiatrist may suggest injecting cortisone, along with a local anesthetic, into the foot. A prescription-strength anti-inflammatory to help controlling swelling may be prescribed.
The podiatrist may also recommend orthotics to deal with this issue. Neuroma pain may be controlled with a custom-made device that fits inside the wearer's shoe. It should help to reduce pressure under the ball of the foot to provide relief to the patient.
If these measures don't prove an effective way to treat the neuroma pain, surgery is the next treatment option. The procedure to decompress the nerve and relieve the swelling and pain is performed using a local anesthetic. In most cases, the patient undergoes the surgery on an outpatient basis. Recovery is quite rapid and usually takes less than three weeks.