Have you noticed a strange tingling, burning, or numbness in your feet—especially in the ball of the foot or toes? These sensations could be more than just momentary discomfort. You might be dealing with neuromas and neuropathy, two common but often misunderstood nerve-related foot conditions.
At Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist, Dr. Dean Kim helps patients identify and manage these conditions early—before symptoms worsen or interfere with daily life.
What Is a Neuroma?
A neuroma is a thickening of nerve tissue, most commonly found between the third and fourth toes. The most well-known type is Morton’s neuroma. It develops when the nerve between the toes becomes irritated or compressed.
Common symptoms include:
- Tingling or numbness in the toes
- A burning sensation in the ball of the foot
- The feeling of a pebble in your shoe
- Pain that worsens with walking or wearing tight shoes
Neuromas often result from high-impact activities, tight footwear, high heels, or foot deformities like bunions or flat feet.
What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy is a broader condition caused by damage to the peripheral nerves, which carry signals between the brain/spinal cord and the rest of the body. In the feet, this can lead to:
- Burning or shooting pain
- Tingling or “pins and needles”
- Numbness, especially in the toes
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Sensitivity to touch
Diabetes is the most common cause of neuropathy in feet, but it can also be linked to alcohol use, vitamin deficiencies, infections, or certain medications.
Key Differences: Neuroma vs. Neuropathy
| Feature | Neuroma | Peripheral Neuropathy |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Between toes (usually 3rd & 4th) | Toes, ball of foot, or entire foot |
| Cause | Nerve compression or irritation | Nerve damage |
| Pain Type | Sharp, localized, worsens with pressure | Burning, tingling, or numbness |
| Triggered By | Walking or tight shoes | Underlying medical conditions |
How We Diagnose and Treat Neuromas and Neuropathy
At Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist, Dr. Dean Kim conducts a thorough exam, reviews your medical history, and may use diagnostic tools like nerve testing or MRI to pinpoint the exact issue.
Treatment options may include:
- Footwear changes: Switching to wider shoes with more support
- Custom orthotics: To reduce pressure on affected nerves
- Medications/injections: Anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections
- Laser therapy: To reduce inflammation and stimulate nerve repair
- Regenerative medicine: Tissue allograft application for long-term relief
- Surgical intervention: In advanced cases where conservative treatment fails
Don’t Ignore the Tingling
Whether you’re feeling an odd sensation occasionally or dealing with ongoing numbness, it’s important not to ignore the signs of neuromas and neuropathy. Early intervention can prevent further nerve damage and help preserve your mobility and quality of life.
Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Dean Kim Today
If you’re experiencing tingling, burning, or numbness in your feet, let us help you find answers. Contact Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist at 469-384-2135 to schedule a comprehensive foot evaluation with Dr. Dean Kim.
