What Is a Neuroma?

When you say someone is “getting on your nerves,” you mean that particular person is annoying or frustrating you in some way. As with many common sayings, it isn’t literal, but there are times when something literally on a nerve can cause problems – like the development of a neuroma.

What is a neuroma? Well, it is a nerve tissue that has become thickened or enlarged on account of external pressure being placed upon it. Depending on the case—and this can vary—the pressure might be coming from a tumor of some sort, or it could come from tissues normally present in the body. An example of this could be a neuroma that develops in the front of the foot for someone who spends a lot of time on the front of his or her feet. Gardeners and baseball catchers are examples of people who can be in a crouched position for an excessive time.

The pressure on the nerve can impair or disrupt its ability to communicate with the brain. As such, the pinched nerve can produce burning or tingling sensations, pain, and even numbness. For some patients, there is an experience of feeling as though they are standing on pebble when no object is actually under the foot.

Treatment for a neuroma is important. Relieving the symptoms is definitely a consideration, but, more importantly, a neuroma left untreated can potentially become a permanent condition. Treatment can relieve the symptoms and be a step in allowing the affected nerve to heal and return to its natural state.

Our treatment plan will depend on your specific condition, but may include conservative options like medication, orthotic devices, padding, or taping. In some cases, we may need to use a minor surgical procedure to either decompress the affected nerve or, if that is not possible, remove the damaged nerve altogether. Of course, we will use conservative methods first before considering surgery.

If you would like more information or have questions about neuromas or nerve issues in the feet, Drs. Joel Brook, Arroyo, and McClurkin, foot specialists at Dallas Podiatry Works have answers for you. Call to schedule an appointment at either our Plano or Dallas, TX offices, at 972.525.8445. You can also take advantage of our online form to contact Dallas Podiatry Works today!

The doctor has great “bedside manners” when talking to patients. Great staff and comfortable atmosphere.

Derrick W.

The staff at Dallas Podiatry Works could not have been more courteous, helpful, and professional in doing their job. They made me feel comfortable when I was there, which is certainly appreciated. They answered all the questions that I had and just made each visit the most pleasurable that it could be. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing this type of foot care.

Joseph B.

I would highly recommend Dr. Brook to anyone with foot problems–especially problems that stump other podiatrists. He really is very caring and very knowledgeable.

Jeannette H.

Dr. Joel Brook and the staff were nice and helpful. Though I was a new patient, I got right in as soon as they were open in my preferred location. They diagnosed the problem and provided medicines along with a perfect gel bandage so I could keep exercising while my toes healed. My toes already hurt less and look a little better each day. If I have future issues, I will be a repeat customer. Here’s hoping I don’t, but at least I know my feet are in good hands.

Meryl E.

I visited this office for an ingrown toe nail a few years ago. After seeing another doctor, who made it worse, he referred me to Dallas Podiatry Works. The doctor there was able to fix my problem. I’m not great with reviews, all I can tell you is that this doctor and staff will have you up and running or doing whatever it is you do in no time. You will be in great hands. You’d be a fool not to use this doctor. Now its time to visit him again for the other toe.

Google User

Been having bad ankle pains for 6 months was referred here and it was a great visit ladies in the front desk medical assistants and the Doctor were all very friendly and make you feel very comfortable.