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 a tumor in the purest sense . 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 that area 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.
