Are you experiencing pain or discomfort in the ball of your foot? If yes, you may be suffering from a neuroma. Neuroma is a condition where the tissue surrounding a nerve in the foot thickens and causes discomfort. Here are effective ways Dr. Erin Koprince can use to treat neuroma.
Wear the right shoes
Wearing ill-fitting shoes is the major cause of foot problems, including neuroma. Therefore ensure you wear the right shoes to alleviate this condition. Look for shoes that have a wide toe box and good arch support. Shoes that are too narrow can compress your toes and aggravate the neuroma. High heels can also be problematic, as they put a lot of pressure on the balls of your feet. Instead, opt for shoes that have a low heel or no heel at all, like sneakers or sandals.
Massage your feet
Massaging your feet can help ease the pain of a neuroma. You can use a tennis ball or other small ball to roll under your foot. Start at the ball of your foot and work your way back towards your heel. You can also use your hands to massage your foot, using your thumbs to apply pressure to the affected area. If you are uncomfortable massaging your feet, consider seeing a massage therapist who can help relieve tension and pain.
Take medications
If your neuroma is causing you severe pain, you may try medications to alleviate the pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Topical creams and ointments, such as lidocaine, can relieve pain. Your doctor may also prescribe corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation in the affected area.
Try orthotics
If you have a neuroma, your doctor may recommend orthotics to help redistribute pressure on your foot and alleviate pain. Orthotics can be made from various materials, including foam, rubber, or plastic. They can also be customized to fit your specific foot shape and size. Your doctor can refer you to a specialist who can create custom orthotics for you.
Modify your activities
Are you fond of high-intensity exercises such as jogging or playing tennis? Is your work demanding you to stand for long periods? Are you also experiencing neuroma symptoms?
If so, you need to alter your everyday physical activities. Opt for low-impact workouts such as swimming or cycling instead of high-impact activities to prevent aggravating your neuroma. In addition, take regular breaks throughout the day to give your feet some rest.
Consider surgery
If conservative treatments have not worked and you are still experiencing pain, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the affected nerve. This surgery is typically done as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. After the surgery, you will need to wear a bandage or splint on your foot for a few weeks while it heals. Your doctor will also give you instructions on caring for your foot and when you can resume normal activities.
Call AIRE Podiatry Studio to book your appointment for the treatment of a neuroma.
