Neuroma Treatment in Thousand Oaks
A neuroma is a thickening of the tissue surrounding a nerve, sometimes described as a pinched nerve. The most common type in the foot is Morton’s neuroma, which develops between the third and fourth toes and can feel like you are walking on a pebble or a fold in your sock. At Performance Foot & Ankle, our podiatrists in Thousand Oaks, CA offer accurate diagnosis and a full range of treatments to relieve neuroma pain and keep you moving comfortably.
Request an AppointmentRecognizing the Symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma
- Pain between the toes, most often the third and fourth toes
- Pain in the ball or front of the foot
- Burning sensations that may radiate into the toes
- Numbness or tingling in the toes
- Swelling between the toes
- Pain when standing, walking, or running, especially in tight shoes
Neuroma symptoms often start mildly and become more frequent over time. If you experience burning foot pain or pain in the ball of the foot, a podiatric evaluation can help prevent the condition from worsening.
What Causes a Neuroma?
Neuromas develop when a nerve is repeatedly compressed or irritated. Common risk factors include:
- Wearing high heels or tight, narrow shoes that squeeze the toes
- High-impact activities such as running, jumping, and court sports
- Foot deformities such as bunions and hammertoes
- Flat feet, high arches, or other biomechanical imbalances
How Neuromas Are Diagnosed
Your podiatrist will examine your foot, press on the affected area, and discuss your symptoms. In-office diagnostic ultrasound is especially useful for visualizing neuromas, while x-rays can rule out stress fractures and other causes of forefoot pain.
Neuroma Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the size of the neuroma and how long you have had symptoms. Most patients improve with conservative care, which may include:
- Wider, supportive shoes with a low heel
- Metatarsal pads and custom orthotics to relieve pressure on the nerve
- Icing and anti-inflammatory medication
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
- MLS laser therapy to calm nerve irritation
- Activity modification and physical therapy
If conservative treatment does not provide relief, surgery may be recommended to remove the neuroma or release surrounding structures to take pressure off the nerve.
Preventing Neuromas From Returning
Neuromas can recur, so prevention is an important part of treatment. Wearing shoes with a roomy toe box, avoiding high heels, and using orthotics during high-impact activities can reduce stress on the nerves of the forefoot.
We are a patient-centered, results-driven clinic serving Thousand Oaks, Newbury Park, and the surrounding areas. Call (805) 273-1415 to schedule an appointment with Performance Foot & Ankle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Neuromas
How is a neuroma diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam and discussion of your symptoms. Diagnostic ultrasound or MRI can confirm a neuroma, and x-rays may be used to rule out fractures or other conditions.
What conservative treatments are available for neuromas?
Conservative options include supportive shoes, metatarsal pads, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory medication, icing, laser therapy, and avoiding activities that worsen symptoms.
Can physical therapy help with neuromas?
Yes. Physical therapy can include stretching and strengthening exercises, gait training, and techniques to reduce pressure on the affected nerve.
Are there injections for neuroma pain?
Yes. Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation around the nerve and relieve pain. Some patients need more than one injection for lasting results.
When is surgery considered for a neuroma?
Surgery is considered when conservative treatments fail to provide relief. It may involve removing the neuroma or releasing nearby tissue to relieve pressure on the nerve.
Will a neuroma go away on its own?
Neuromas usually do not go away on their own, but symptoms often improve significantly with footwear changes, orthotics, and other conservative treatments.
What shoes are best for Morton’s neuroma?
Shoes with a wide toe box, low heel, good cushioning, and firm arch support are best. Avoid high heels and narrow or pointed shoes.