Neuromas

• Pain in area of "ball of foot"
  
• Burning or tingling sensation in the foot and maybe some numbness
  
• Cramping may also occur
  
• No swelling or bumps
  

• A bundle of nerve endings whose covering is inflammed
  
• Occurs when the tissue surrounding a nerve becomes enlarged - thickened
  
• Usually a pinching of the third and forth metatarsal bones which compress a nerve
  
• Generally occurs in adults amd more common in females
  

• Pronation is a normal movement of the foot that allows the arch to flatten to a degree, which helps the body absorb shock and adapt to different ground surfaces.
  
• In analyzing ones gait, first contact is on the heel and outside of the foot; followed by a shift of body weight continuing forward, toward the arch and toes.
  
• If the foot is weak or tired and/or the footwear is not supportive, then the arch can flatten more than normal, which is excessive pronation.
  
• Flattening of the arch (excessive pronation) places pressure on the foot and can decrease the metatarsal arch thus increasing the chance of compression on the nerve creating a neuroma.
  
• With excessive pronation, increased stress can be placed on the foot.
  

• Flat feet
  
• Wearing of tight, poorly fitting shoes such as pointed high heeled shoes
  
• Aggravated by prolonged standing
  
• Increased stress such as kneeling or ladders
  
• Mechanically there is too much movement of the metatarsals (bones of the foot)
  

• Stretching of the foot and massage can help to decrease the pressure obetween the toes and metatarsals.
  
• Strengthening of the foot, with the toe curl can help to strengthen the arch.
  
• Supporting the foot with proper shoes and insoles, can prevent, improve or eliminate the vast majority of foot problems. This can be done by a Birkenstock sandal, with a broad base and contoured footbed, that is low to the ground and conforms to the foot. It may also be a shoe with an upper that wraps the foot and supports the arch and heel, thus limiting excessive pronation. The vast majority of footwear have more than enough cushion but very little support for the arch and heel. One of the easiest and most effective solutions is to add a simple heal over the counter insole that provides a forgiving support for both the arch and the heel.
  
• Make sure the shoe has enough room in the toe box.
  
• may need an additional metatarsal support to help decrease pressure on the ball of the foot.