Do you experience foot numbness and pain in the ball of your foot? If this is you, read on.
One condition that can cause pain and numbness to your forefoot is a neuroma. A neuroma is a benign growth of a nerve, which thickens the tissue around the nerve which supplies the area to the toes. The thickening can be in response to constant pressure or trauma. The compression of the nerve can cause irritation and lead to pain if the cause is not identified and addressed. The most common area this occurs is in between the 3rd and 4th toes which is called a Morton’s Neuroma. 
Symptoms can include:
- Burning sensation
- Tingling
- Numbness
- Pain in ball of foot
- Feels like walking on a stone or marble
Risk Factors:
- Narrow footwear such as high heels or dress shoes
- Foot deformities such as bunions and clawed toes
- Foot biomechanics and function (the way you walk)
- Repetitive trauma
- Certain sports such as running, skiing, ballet, or court sports that either require tighter footwear or increased pressures to the ball of the foot
If you think you might have a neuroma it is important to attend your local podiatrist for an assessment to ensure the pain, tingling or numbness is not caused by another condition prior to commencing treatment. Some treatment options include, modifying footwear to increase width and reduce forefoot pressure, redistributing foot pressures via modified innersoles or custom orthotics, activity modification and padding.
In some cases where conservative measures have been exhausted you may require a referral for a cortisone injection or a surgical intervention to remove the affected tissue.
If you think you may be experiencing a foot neuroma please contact our clinic on 8468 2411 to book online here for an assessment with one of our friendly podiatrists.
