NHS LOTHIAN | PODIATRY SERVICE
Plantar Digital Neuroma
Plantar Digital Neuroma (PDN) is a condition characterised by pain from one or more of the small nerves found in the front of the foot, between the bones at the base of the toes.
The nerve can be irritated or damaged.
What causes Plantar Digital Neuroma?
Some of the most common causes of PDN are as follows:
Common Causes include:
- Wearing ill-fitting or badly styled footwear, especially narrow shoes, such as: high heels, hard thin soles, or soles that are too soft
- Activities/occupations that involve placing large amounts of pressure and/or strain on the foot and ankle, such as running or jumping
- Tight or weak muscles in the lower leg and/or foot
- Being overweight
- Direct injury
- Foot deformity
- Toe shape changes such as bunions and hammer toes
- Arthritis of the foot and ankle
Signs and Symptoms:
- Sharp shooting/stabbing burning pain in the affected area
- Numbness/tingling in toes
- Some people describe a feeling as though their sock has wrinkled up inside their shoe
- Some people describe having to remove their footwear and massage the area for relief
What can I do to help myself?
It is important to try to work out what leads to your pain. Avoiding the causes or triggers of painful symptoms is one of the most important parts of helping your recovery.
Consider the following options:
Footwear
Modify activity levels
Ice packs
Aim for a healthy body weight
Pain medication
Excercises
Towel Stretch
Gastrocnemius Stretch
Soleus Stretch
Towel Scrunches
Foot Doming
What if my symptoms fail to resolve?
If after 6 weeks following the above advice, your problem has not improved seek advice from a Podiatrist.
NHS 24 MSK Help app
Free app with further exercise guidance and self-management support for MSK conditions. Available on the App Store and Google Play.
Self-Referral Form
CONTACT INFORMATION
NHS Lothian Podiatry
Mon-Thu: 8:30am-4pm
Fri: 8am-3:30pm
Telephone: (0131) 536 1627
ABOUT US
Podiatrists are allied healthcare professionals trained to help prevent, diagnose, and treat problems affecting your feet and lower limbs.
Podiatry’s primary aim is to improve the mobility, independence, and quality of life for their patients.
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