Neuromas Specialist
-
- Tweet
West Side Foot Care
Philip Messenger, DPM, PLLC
Podiatrist located in Upper West Side, New York, NY
If you regularly experience the sensation of having a pebble or small stone lodged in the foot of your shoe, a neuroma may be to blame. As a top-ranked provider of podiatry services for patients in and around the Upper West Side of New York City, Philip Messenger, DPM, PLLC, and the team at West Side Foot Care provide safe, effective treatment for neuroma pain and related symptoms, helping men and women enjoy pain-free mobility. To find the best treatment for your neuroma pain, call the office or schedule an appointment online.
Neuromas Q & A
What is a neuroma?
A neuroma or “nerve tumor” is a painful, benign growth of nerve tissue that can develop anywhere in your body. Morton’s neuroma is the most common type of neuroma that affects the foot and typically develops between your third and fourth toes.
What are the symptoms of a neuroma?
The symptoms of a neuroma typically develop slowly over an extended period. At first, you may only experience discomfort when exercising or wearing narrow-toed shoes.
As the condition progresses, it’s common to experience:
- Tingling and burning
- General pain and discomfort
- A feeling that something is in the ball of your foot
A neuroma also causes numbness, which left untreated can affect your balance and overall mobility.
How is a neuroma diagnosed?
If you suspect you have a neuroma, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a qualified podiatrist like Dr. messenger.
During your appointment, Dr. Messenger performs a thorough physical exam of your foot, reviews your medical history, and asks you a series of questions about your symptoms.
Next, he carefully manipulates your feet, toes, and ankles, performing a series of physical tests. If necessary, Dr. Messenger can also order diagnostic imaging such as an X-ray to get a better look at the bones and soft tissues in your feet.
How are neuromas treated?
Treatment for a neuroma depends on the severity of your symptoms and their effect on your quality of life. Whenever possible, Dr. Messenger uses conservative, non-surgical means of treatment. Some of these options include:
Icing
Placing an ice pack on your affected foot can relieve swelling and inflammation.
Orthotic devices
Orthotic devices are inserts designed to match the unique shape and curvature of your feet. Dr. Messenger can design a custom orthotic device that supports your foot while relieving pressure on the nerves between your toes.
Medications
Over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen can provide adequate relief from some types of neuroma pain. If necessary, stronger prescription medications are also available.
Activity modifications
If you’re an athlete, the team at West Side Foot Care can develop a plan that minimizes pain when you’re working out. Simple adjustments to your exercise routine can also prevent further irritation.
Surgical intervention
Sometimes conservative measures of treatment aren’t enough to provide adequate relief from neuroma pain. If your symptoms persist, surgery may be necessary.
If neuroma pain is affecting your quality of life, schedule an appointment at West Side Foot Care by calling the office or scheduling an appointment online.
