Neuroma Treatment Birmingham

Definition
Forefoot pain is very common and there are many reasons for this. Neuromas are the main reason for forefoot pain. Forefoot neuromas occur in people between 18 and 60 years old. Women tend to suffer from this condition more than men. This pain must be diagnosed by a Podiatrist so it can be treated accordingly. A neuroma is when a nerve is enlarged and becomes painful or feels strange. Neuromas can affect lots of nerves in the foot. The most common nerves are the ones that run to the second and third toes and the third and fourth toes. These are also known as Morton's neuroma.

Neuromas form when the nerves inside the foot contract and expand. When the nerve has expanded it is inclined to contract. Forefoot neuromas begin with throbbing pain that moves towards the toes. Sometimes the toes may feel numb. Pain can be relieved by taking off tight shoes.

Treatment
There are many treatments available to treat forefoot neuromas. A podiatrist will be able to advice you on the best treatment for you. Wearing tight shoes may help to some extent as it lessens the space between the bones for the nerves to contract and expand. It may help but will not cure the condition.
After a Podiatrist has carried out a full assessment and a diagnosis has been made. Then the causes will have to be identified before treatment can be suggested. Biomechanical therapy and injection therapy may be used as treatment.

Injection therapy may be suggested as treatment. Steroids and local anaesthetics are commonly used to treat forefoot neuromas. Steroids are used to reduce any swelling where the injection has been given near the neuroma. It may be necessary to give more than one injection. In some instances symptoms may worsen after an injection but will calm down. Biomechanical therapy is used if there is a mechanical problem. Orthotics can be prescribed so that they are individually made for your feet. These insoles/orthotics will help steady the foot and stop the neuroma from expanding and contracting.

For symptoms to completely resolve it is usually necessary for the neuroma to be operated on. The operation will consist of a small cut into the neuroma at the forefoot. It is carried out under a local anaesthetic and you will be able to go home the same day. The operation will help to relieve pain but there may be some slight permanent numbness in the two toes that were affected by the neuroma.