No, you have many options for treating neuromas. Also called “pinched nerves,” neuromas are common foot problems that can be painful and frustrating. Typically, surgery is the last resort option. A number of other options are available that are more conservative and less invasive. Consult with your Arizona podiatrist for the recommended course of action. Taking it one step at a time is important to get back on your feet in comfort.
Surgery Is an Option, Not the Only One
Surgery may be one way to treat Morton’s neuroma. There are different surgeries that may be effective. Surgery may involve cutting structures to relieve pressure, or it could involve removing certain tissue. While safe, invasive procedures have their downsides. For instance, you may need more time to recover after neuroma surgery.
We recommend exploring more conservative treatments before resorting to surgery. Other treatment options can be equally effective and far less invasive. They can be easier to manage day-to-day. In all cases, we strive to answer all your questions so you can make an informed decision about your health.
Other Neuroma Treatments to Consider
At Fixing Feet Institute, we offer many neuroma treatments. We can discuss any of these with you during your consultation. Before resorting to surgery, it is generally a good idea to try these treatments first:
- Rest and icing can provide immediate relief. This can help reduce swelling. Less severe symptoms are usually easier to treat.
- Over-the-counter medicine can help with pain management. Getting back to comfort may be a solid first step to recovering.
- Custom orthotics fit the exact shape of your feet. Custom orthotics are individual to you. They can provide support precisely where you need it. Poor foot form is a leading cause of neuromas.
- Padding or taping the foot can address biomechanical issues. This can encourage better form.
- Steroid injections can reduce swelling and nerve pain.
- Therapeutic nerve blocks are anesthetic injections. They can help to relieve severe pain.
- Physical therapy can help loosen ligaments. Massage and stretching exercises are beneficial and can help you gain improved mobility and flexibility.
- Electronic signal transfer (EST) therapy stimulates nerve healing with high-frequency electronic waves.
- Laser therapy creates a healing environment for peripheral nerves using light energy.
It Is Important to Get the Right Treatment
Getting the right treatment for neuromas is unique to the individual. Every foot is different, and every patient is different. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment plan that will work for everyone.
The first step is understanding that you should not ignore foot nerve pain. The sensation of a pebble in your shoe may be annoying. But, it would not be a good idea to dismiss it. It could be a sign of something worse, like a neuroma. There are many causes of neuroma pain, and a skilled podiatrist can best assess your case.
We can address symptoms and identify the root cause. Are your shoes too tight? Is it a high-impact sports injury? Does it relate to other foot deformities? A custom treatment plan seeks to find the best fit for you.
How Fixing Feet Institute Can Help
Treating a neuroma is not a quick fix. While resorting to surgery can fix the initial issue, it may not get to the heart of the problem. At Fixing Feet Institute, we take a holistic view of foot and ankle health. We help with reducing neuroma pain.
But there’s more to it than that. We not only diagnose your current issue and address it—we look into better foot health moving forward. We may recommend home treatments as part of your plan. This way, you have the tools to manage your own pain. Also, we suggest options for preventative care, such as:
- Choosing shoes with width adjustments
- Avoiding high heels over two inches
- Massaging when you feel pain
- Applying ice to reduce swelling
- Using shoe pads to relieve pressure