Neuroma - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

An acoustic neuroma is a benign , noncancerous, often slow-growing tumor of the nerve that connects the ear to the brain (8th cranial or auditory) nerve. The tumor can be a serious threat because it is located near vital brain structures. A more correct term for the tumor is "vestibular schwannoma," because the tumors arise from the vestibular portion of the nerve from schwann cells that form the insulation around the nerve cells. Acoustic neuroma was the original name given to these tumors before their true origin and cell type were defined. These tumors continue to be known by this incorrect term. Approximately 2,500 people are diagnosed with an acoustic neuroma every year in the United States. Most are between the ages of 30 and 60. Although there is an inherited condition called neurofibromatosis which can lead to the development of bilateral acoustic neuromas, most occur spontaneously without any evidence of being inherited. A Morton's neuroma is a swollen, inflamed nerve located between the bones at the ball of the foot (usually either the second or the third spacing from the base of the great toe). Morton's neuroma is caused by compression of the nerve of sensation between the ends of the metatarsal bones at the base of the toes.

A neuroma is a noncancerous (benign) growth of nerve tissue that can develop in various parts of your body. The most common neuroma in the foot is a Morton's neuroma, which occurs at the base of the third and fourth toes. It is sometimes referred to as an intermetatarsal neuroma. "Intermetatarsal" describes its location - in the ball of the foot between the metatarsal bones (the bones extending from the toes to the midfoot). Neuromas may also occur in other locations in the foot. The thickening, or enlargement, of the nerve that defines a neuroma is the result of compression and irritation of the nerve. This compression creates swelling of the nerve, eventually leading to permanent nerve damage. Symptoms include pain and a burning sensation in the afflicted area, numbness, and cramping. A lump can develop at the base of the toes due to swelling and tumor growth. A burning pain may also occur in the ball of the foot. The condition can result from wearing high-heeled or too-tight shoes, high-impact exercise, or an injury. In some cases, there is no clear cause. Patients with Morton's Neuroma experience sharp burning pain when walking, especially on hard surfaces and when barefoot. Common home remedies include rest, massage , and roomy footwear. Some patients find relief from custom orthotics , such as arch supports or pads, and from anti-inflammatory medications and/or cortisone injections. Some cases require surgery. For any foot pain that lasts longer than a few days, see your doctor. Prompt treatment can prevent surgery.

Causes of Neuroma

Common Causes of Neuroma :

Injury to your foot .
Wearing high-heeled shoes or shoes that are tight.
A tight toe box will squeeze the toes in the foot and therefore put pressure on the nerve.
High-impact athletic activities, such as jogging, that may subject your feet to repetitive trauma .

Symptoms of Neuroma

Signs and symptoms of Neuroma may include :

Dizziness.
Loss of hearing in one ear.
Tingling or numbness in your toes
Facial weakness.
Headache.
Mental confusion.

Treatment of Neuroma

Avoid high heels.
Pain medication.
Arch supports.
In rare cases, surgery.
Wear well fitting shoes.

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