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What is
Neuroma?
A non-cancerous growth of nerve tissue is
called a neuroma. It can occur in various
parts of your body and it is a result of
compression and irritation of the nerve.
This compression generates swelling of the
nerve, which eventually leads to permanent
nerve damage.
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Effects
of Neuroma
Treatment of neuroma is effective in
preventing its growth, decreasing discomfort
in the area, increasing possibility of
wearing certain shoes and performing
specific activities.
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Candidates
for Neuroma
Ideal candidates for this procedure are
those who commonly have neuromas in the heel
area, resulting in heel pain. Neuromas
rarely occur in the spaces between the big
toe and second toe, and between the fourth
and fifth toes.
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Your
Consultation
The foot and ankle surgeon will get a
complete history of your symptoms and
inspect your foot to arrive at a diagnosis.
The doctor will also try to reproduce your
symptoms by maneuvering your foot during the
physical examination. Other tests may also
be done.
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The Neuroma
Procedure
Neuroma may be treated by cortisone
injections,
orthotics,
chemical destruction of the nerve,
or
surgery. Cortisone injections are
initially used to treat neuroma. It is
beneficial when injected around the nerve
because it minimizes the swelling of the
nerve and also relieves pressure on it. Up
to three cortisone injections can be taken
over a twelve-month period. Although
cortisone may offer relief for many months,
it is not a cure for the condition. The
abnormal movements of the metatarsal bones
remain to exacerbate the condition over a
period of time.
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Recovery
Recovery period depends on the procedure(s)
done. Whether or not you have had surgical
or non-surgical treatment, your foot and
ankle surgeon will propose long-term
measures to help sustain your symptoms from
recurring, these may include the use of
proper footwear and modification of
activities that cause repetitive pressure on
the foot.
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Risks
There is the risk that certain neuromas may
reoccur, but this is uncommon.
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Frequently Asked
Questions
Q:
What
are
the
different
types
of
neuroma?
A:
The various kinds of neuroma are ganglioneuroma (in the
brain or CNS), neurilemoma, neurofibroma and
acoustic neuroma.
Q: What
are the symptoms of neuroma?
A:
Common symptoms are burning pain, tingling, and numbness in
one or two of the toes.
Q: What
causes a neuroma?
A:
Anything that initiates compression or irritation of the
nerve can start the development of a neuroma. One of the
most common reasons is wearing shoes that have a tapered toe
box, or high-heeled shoes that brings the toes to be forced
into the toe box.
Individuals with specific foot deformities, such as bunions,
hammertoes, flat feet, or more flexible feet, are at higher
risk for getting a neuroma. Further probable causes are
activities that involve recurring irritation to the ball of
the foot, such as running or racquet sports. An injury or
other kind of trauma to the area may also result in a
neuroma.
Q: When
is surgery needed?
A:
Patients who have not obtained sufficient relief from other
remedies should consider surgery. There are generally two
surgical methods to treating a neuroma, the involved nerve
is either removed or released. Consult with a foot and ankle
surgeon to decide which treatment is best for your
condition.
Q: What
are the treatments available for neuroma?
A:
In
coming up with a treatment plan, your foot and ankle surgeon
will first verify how long you have had the neuroma and
assess its stage of development. Treatment approaches differ
according to the seriousness of the problem. For mild to
moderate cases of neuroma, treatment alternatives include
padding techniques, icing, orthotic devices, modifications
in activities, changes in shoe wear, medications, and
injection therapy.
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