INTERMETATARSAL NEUROMA
WHAT IS A NEUROMA?
A neuroma is a thickening of nerve tissue that may develop in various parts of the body. The most common neuroma in the foot is a Morton’s neuroma, which occurs between the third and fourth toes. It is sometimes referred to as an intermetatarsal neuroma. Intermetatarsal describes its location in the ball of the foot between the metatarsal bones. The thickening of the nerve that defines a neuroma is the result of compression and irritation of the nerve. This compression creates enlargement of the nerve, eventually leading to permanent nerve damage.
TREATMENT:
For mild to moderate neuromas, treatment options may include: padding, icing, rest, elevation, orthotic devices, activity modifications, shoe modifications, oral anti-inflammatory medications, and injection therapy. Surgery may be considered in patients who have not responded adequately to nonsurgical treatments. The length of the recovery period will vary depending on the procedure performed. Regardless of whether you have undergone surgical or nonsurgical treatment, your surgeon will recommend long-term measures to help keep your symptoms from returning. These include appropriate footwear and modification of activities to reduce the repetitive pressure on the foot.
