Neuromas & Nerve Injuries

A neuroma is the swelling of a nerve that is the result of compression or trauma. The most common site for neuroma is on the ball of the foot. A puncture wound or laceration can cause a neuroma, which can result following a surgery. The diagnosis is made by a physical exam and a thorough history of the patient’s complaint. Conditions that mimic the pain are stress fractures, inflammation of the tendons, arthritis of joints, and nerve compression. Treatment includes cortisone injections, orthotics, chemical destruction of the nerve, or surgery. Cortisone injections are used as an initial form of treatment. The cortisone will shrink the swelling of the nerve which relieves the pressure on the nerve. Up to three cortisone injections can be given over a twelve-month period.