A neuroma is an abnormality of a nerve that has been damaged either by trauma or as a result of an abnormality of the foot. Neuromas are felt in the ball of the foot, due to a pinched and inflamed nerve, usually between the 2nd and 3rd toes and metatarsals or 3rd and 4th toes and metatarsals. Although often called a growth on the nerve, neuromas are compression neuropathies, much more like carpal tunnel syndrome. The involved plantar common digital nerve is injured and may thicken and cause radiating pain in the 2nd and 3rd toes, or 3rd and 4th toes. Often there symptom of feeling like your sock is wadded up under the base of the toes. Often orthotics can balance the foot and off load the painful area, without the need for surgery.

In most neuroma procedures, an incision is made on the top of the foot in the location of the neuroma, usually between the second and third toes of between the third and fourth toes. After the nerve is located, the surgeon cuts and removes it.

In most cases it is not necessary to do this type of surgery, removing the nerve. I can do a simple procedure, called a Neurolysis, decompressing the nerve with a very small incision between the toes. This is done under local anesthesia with sedation. The day after this surgery, you remove the dressings and return to shoes. Removing the nerve is a last resort and one I rarely have to perform.