Neuroma

A neuroma is a painful condition typically noted in the ball of the foot with a burning sensation, tingling, or numbness between the toes on the ball of the foot. A neuroma results from injury to the nerve area, causing inflammation and associated discomfort. The pain also has been described as a sense of a lump in the ball of the foot, or the sense of walking on a pebble, however the sensation may only appear as a burning sensation as well.

Neuroma can be caused by injury or abnormal biomechanics. They are more prevalent in the forefoot. Conservative care includes well-padded and stiff soled shoes to reduce the potential for injury. Additional treatments include the use of functional orthotics, padding, injection, anti-inflammatory drugs, and rarely surgical intervention.