How to Cure a Neuroma

Neuromas are benign growths that can develop anywhere within your body. The two main types of neuromas are Morton's neuroma and acoustic neuroma. Morton's neuromas are growths that form within the nerves of your feet. Acoustic neuromas grow within your brain. The treatment for a neuroma depends on the type. In order to help treat your condition, you'll need to confer with a physician.

Things You'll Need

• Treatment as suggested by your physician

Instructions

Morton's Neuroma

1. First, try non-invasive approaches such as resting your feet or arch supports for your shoes. Also, try shoes that may provide more support for your feet. Stop wearing tight-fitting shoes that push your toes together.

2. Consult with a physician on the possibility of receiving corticosteroid injections at the site of the neuroma. Speak with your physician about possible side effects you may experience as corticosteroids can cause weight gain and high blood pressure.

3. Speak with your physician about alcohol injections. Alcohol injections reduce the size of neuromas, as well as minimize pain.

4. Get surgery if other options fail. The removal of a growth provides you relief. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, your physician may choose surgery as a last effort because surgery can also remove nerves, which may permanently damage your affected toes.

Acoustic Neuroma

1. Undergo stereotactic radiosurgery if your physician recommends it for your acoustic neuroma. You'll be put under local anesthesia. If you have any known allergic reactions to anesthesia, notify your physician.

2. Undergo imaging scans prior to your stereotactic radiosurgery procedure in order to pinpoint the exact location of your growth. Prior to the stereotactic radiosurgery procedure, your head is numbed while a frame is placed to your scalp. Radiation is then delivered directly to your growth.

3. You'll need to see your physician several times to ensure that the growth has been completely removed. You'll also need to take hearing tests to see if the growth has caused any possible damage to your hearing.

4. Undergo surgery if your physician feels that this is your best option. Surgery may be necessary to prevent a growth from damaging your facial nerves. Without surgery, it's possible for a growth to result in facial paralysis or hearing loss.

5. If you undergo surgery, stay in the hospital for the necessary amount of time, which can be up to one week. Follow up with recovery and additional visits to your physician to ensure that you're healing well.

Tips & Warnings

• Try wearing arch supports in your shoes if you suffer from Morton's neuroma.

• Try wearing more supportive shoes that aren't constrictive.

• Try massage and ice for Morton's neuroma to help alleviate pain.

• If you suffer from Morton's neuroma, don't wear high heels or shoes that push your toes in tight.

• Don't exercise or run if you have Morton's neuroma, as this can exacerbate your symptoms.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Morton's Neuroma

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Mayo Clinic: Acoustic Neuroma
• Podiatry Network: Morton's Neuroma
• The New York Times Health Guide: Morton's Neuroma