Neuroma Treatment in Pembroke Pines & Plantation
A neuroma is a thickening of nerve tissue that can develop in many areas of the body. In the foot, the most common type is Morton’s neuroma, also called an intermetatarsal neuroma, which typically forms between the third and fourth toes in the ball of the foot. At Daniel Bell, DPM - Foot & Ankle Institute, Daniel Bell, DPM diagnoses and treats neuromas to relieve burning, tingling, and pain so you can walk comfortably again.
What Causes a Neuroma?
Compression and irritation of a nerve cause the surrounding tissue to thicken. Over time, this pressure inflames the nerve and, if left untreated, can lead to lasting nerve damage. Common contributing factors include:
- High heels and tight, narrow shoes that squeeze the forefoot
- Foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, and flat feet
- High-impact activities like running and court sports
- Repeated pressure on the ball of the foot
- Previous injury to the forefoot
Symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma
- Burning pain in the ball of the foot that may radiate into the toes
- Tingling or numbness in the toes
- A feeling like a pebble or a folded sock under the foot
- Pain that worsens in tight shoes or with activity
- Relief when removing shoes and massaging the foot
Neuroma symptoms often overlap with other causes of foot pain, including stress fractures and joint inflammation, so an accurate diagnosis is essential.
Diagnosing a Neuroma
Dr. Bell will examine your foot, press on the area between the metatarsals, and review your symptoms and footwear. Imaging may be used to rule out other conditions.
Neuroma Treatment Options
Early treatment gives you the best chance of avoiding surgery. Conservative options include:
- Wider shoes with a low heel and a roomy toe box
- Metatarsal pads to spread the bones and relieve pressure on the nerve
- Custom orthotics to improve foot mechanics
- Activity modification and icing
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce nerve inflammation
If symptoms persist despite conservative care, surgical treatment may be recommended to release pressure on the nerve or remove the affected portion. Learn more about foot and ankle surgery.
Athletes with forefoot pain benefit from our sports medicine care. Explore all conditions we treat or our podiatry services.
Neuroma FAQs
What does Morton’s neuroma feel like?
It often feels like burning pain in the ball of the foot, tingling in the toes, or like standing on a pebble or a bunched-up sock.
What causes Morton’s neuroma?
It is caused by compression and irritation of a nerve between the toe bones, often from tight shoes, high heels, foot deformities, or high-impact activity.
Can a neuroma go away on its own?
Symptoms may improve with footwear changes and padding, but the thickened nerve usually does not disappear without treatment.
Do orthotics help neuromas?
Yes. Custom orthotics and metatarsal pads can relieve pressure on the nerve and reduce symptoms.
Are injections effective for neuromas?
Corticosteroid injections can reduce nerve inflammation and pain and are a common step before considering surgery.
When is surgery needed for a neuroma?
Surgery may be recommended when pain continues despite footwear changes, padding, orthotics, and injections.
Can I prevent a neuroma?
Wearing shoes with a wide toe box and low heel and limiting time in tight or high-heeled shoes can reduce the risk.
Relieve Nerve Pain in the Ball of Your Foot
Early treatment can help you avoid surgery. Call (954) 942-5005 - Pembroke Pines Office or (954) 942-5005 - Plantation Office or request an appointment online with Dr. Bell.