Neuroma
A burning or tingling feeling between the toes
A neuroma is a thickened nerve in the foot, most often between the third and fourth toes. It can feel like you’re stepping on a pebble, or cause burning, tingling, or numbness in the ball of the foot.
Neuromas form when the nerve is irritated or compressed over time, often due to tight shoes or foot structure. Without treatment, the symptoms can become more frequent or harder to relieve.
Common Questions about Neuroma
What causes a neuroma?
Repeated pressure or irritation to the nerve can cause it to swell and thicken. This may be due to narrow shoes, high heels, foot injuries, or structural issues like flat feet or high arches.
What are the symptoms?
You may feel pain, burning, tingling, or numbness in the ball of the foot, often between the toes. Some people describe the sensation as walking on a small stone.
How is it diagnosed?
We diagnose neuromas based on your symptoms and a physical exam. Pressing on the area may reproduce the pain, and imaging may be used to rule out other causes.
Can a neuroma go away on its own?
Mild cases may improve with shoe changes or activity adjustments, but many people need additional care to relieve symptoms.
What happens if I ignore it?
The pain may become more frequent or intense, and the nerve may become permanently enlarged. Early care often leads to better results.
Is surgery always needed?
No. Many neuromas can be managed without surgery using pads, orthotics, or injections. Surgery is an option if symptoms don’t improve.
Treatment Options
Treatment for neuroma focuses on relieving pressure on the nerve. We may recommend:
- Shoe changes with wider toe boxes
- Custom orthotics or padding
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Cortisone injections
- Alcohol sclerosing injections
- Surgical removal in resistant cases
We treat neuromas at all of our locations.
Meet our providers
Our doctors are ABFAS Board Certified and are all Fellows in the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.
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Why patients choose us
Patients come to us for careful exams, clear answers, and treatment that works.
Doctors with years of experience
Offices across Rhode Island and Massachusetts
Advanced treatments for complex cases
Clear communication before and after your visit
4.9-star average from more than 2,000 patient reviews
“ Very helpful and pleasant. My feet always feel better after I visit their clinic. I would recommend them without hesitation.James H.P.
Locations across Rhode Island & Massachusetts
We have offices in North Providence, Warwick, Pawtucket, Cranston, East Providence, Johnston, Newport, and other nearby towns. Each location has its own hours and contact information. Many offer same-week appointments.
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