Neuroma Treatment & Relief in Brighton, MI

A neuroma is a noncancerous thickening of nerve tissue, most commonly found between the third and fourth toes. Morton’s neuroma, the most frequently diagnosed type, develops from repeated pressure or irritation caused by compressed space between the metatarsal bones and can range from mildly uncomfortable to genuinely debilitating. The most common description patients use is feeling like there’s a pebble or bunched-up sock in their shoe, accompanied by sharp, burning, or tingling pain and sometimes numbness in the ball of the foot. If you’re experiencing Morton’s neuroma symptoms, Brighton Foot & Ankle is here to help.

Patients also commonly notice a clicking sensation when walking, caused by the neuroma moving up and down between the metatarsal bones. While neuromas can develop in anyone, individuals with a high arch, women, and those who are active on the balls of their feet such as runners are at higher risk.

Causes

While the exact cause isn’t always clear, several factors commonly contribute:

Footwear:

Wearing tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes can increase pressure on the forefoot, potentially leading to neuromas.

Foot Structure:

Individuals with certain foot deformities or conditions like flat feet or bunions may be more susceptible to developing neuromas.

Repetitive Stress:

Activities that involve repetitive stress on the forefoot, such as running or certain occupations, can increase the risk of neuromas.

Trauma:

A history of foot injuries or trauma can also make individuals more prone to developing neuromas.

Dr. Castelein begins with a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. X-ray imaging may be used to assess the size and location of the neuroma and rule out other causes of forefoot pain.

Accurate Diagnosis

The first step in addressing neuromas is a precise diagnosis. Dr. Castelein will conduct a
comprehensive examination which may include:

Personalized Treatment Plans

Once a neuroma is confirmed, Dr. Castelein builds a personalized treatment plan aimed at relieving pain and restoring normal foot function. Options include:

Corticosteroid Injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation around the neuroma.
Neurolysis Injections: If corticosteroid injections don't provide adequate relief, a series of alcohol and lidocaine injections may be used. Nerve tissue absorbs alcohol rapidly, which dehydrates the nerve and can resolve symptoms over multiple sessions.
Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve foot mechanics and reduce overall pain from the neuroma.
Surgery: If conservative treatments fail, Dr. Castelein performs a minimally invasive outpatient procedure to remove the neuroma. Patients should know that removing the nerve means permanent numbness in the toes on either side of the neuroma — a trade-off of the burning and tingling sensation for continual numbness. Most patients adjust well. Following the procedure patients are typically allowed to bear weight with a light bandage and surgical shoe.

Post-Treatment

After treatment, Dr. Castelein monitors your recovery closely and provides personalized guidance on footwear selection, activity modifications, and stretching exercises to help prevent recurrence and keep you moving comfortably long-term.

Neuromas are very treatable — especially when caught early. Book online or call us today for an evaluation.

Julie

I'm so happy to have found Brighton Foot And Ankle in Brighton. The office staff and assistant are very pleasant. Dr. Bryant Castelein is a great knowledgeable Dr. Who has eased my worry over my medical condition. Plus he's handsome. I would highly recommend this practice for anyone needing podiatry help.

Amy

What great people to help you! From receptionist to doctor, they are top notch! You would not regret going here for any of your foot/ankle problems, they will fix you up with the utmost care and compassion.

Yo K

Dr. Castelein and staff were friendly, knowledgeable , efficient and took the time to get to know me and understand my medical needs. I would not hesitate to go to Brighton Foot & Ankle. They go out of their way to treat their patients like family.

Robert

Dr. Castelein is great; he is very nice, patient, and professional. His staff is also excellent and friendly. It's only been about three hours since having my big toenail removed and, with acetaminophen and ibuprofen, there is very little pain(sometimes I completely forget about it); he did an excellent job. Overall, I am very impressed with Dr. Casteleins Practice and I would highly recommend his office.

Joseph

Doctor & staff were so professional, friendly & efficient. I had a high risk condition that they expertly guided me through 5 months of healing. Thankfully a full recovery. I give them my best recommendation.

Lexi

Very friendly and accommodating front desk staff. Dr. Castelein and Jennifer always take their time and do an amazing job! Great variety of quick pick up over the counter products that are always affordable too. Best experience I have had at an office.

Christena

Dr. Castelein is very friendly and extremely knowledgeable in his field. During my visit he did a great job explaining my situation and was very encouraging of any questions. I never felt rushed and I believe to have received the best care possible. Highly recommend this doctor and this facility.

Nicole C

Excellent staff and exceptional doctor. I went in with Bunion issues. Dr. Castelein listened to my concerns and addressed my options. 4 days post-op bunion surgery I can say he did an amazing job. Best experience I have ever had. I would definitely recommend; I promise you won't look further.

Ashley

The staff and Dr. Castelein are all amazing. They are polite and very respectful. I came to see them in 2019 for bunion and hammer toe issues among some others. Dr. Castelein and his assistant listened to my concerns and gave me my options. He explained everything to me in detail and all my questions were answered.. I have seen other podiatrists and he is beyond the best. I would recommend him to anyone.

Alex

Friendly staff and intelligent doctor! I went in for some ankle X-rays and was given a great strategy on the different ways to heal my ankle, and how to progress forward if less invasive treatment doesn't help. I would highly recommend them to anyone with foot or ankle problems!