A neuroma is the swelling of nerve that is a result of a
compression or trauma. They are often described as nerve tumors.
However, they are not in the purest sense a tumor. They are a
swelling within the nerve that may result in permanent nerve
damage. The most common site for a neuroma is on the ball of the
foot. The most common cause of neuroma in ball of the foot is
the abnormal movement of the long bones behind the toes called
metatarsal bones. A small nerve passes between the spaces of the
metatarsals. At the base of the toes, the nerves split forming a
"Y" and enter the toes. It is in this area the nerve gets
pinched and swells, forming the neuroma. Burning pain, tingling,
and numbness in one or two of the toes is a common symptom.
Sometimes this pain can become so severe, it can bring tears to
a patient's eyes. Removing the shoe and rubbing the ball of the
foot helps to ease the pain. As the nerve swells, it can be felt
as a popping sensation when walking. Pain is intermittent and is
aggravated by anyt