A neuroma is a noncancerous growth that can occur in nerve cells in various parts of the body. Acoustic neuroma is a slowly growing tumor that affects hearing and balance and can be removed by surgery or radiation. Morton’s neuroma is a thickening of tissue around a nerve in the foot and can be treated with rest, orthotics, medication, or surgery.
A neuroma is a noncancerous or benign growth that occurs in nerve cells. This growth of nerve tissue can occur in various places in the body. Two common neuromas are acoustic neuroma, which occurs between the brain and inner ear, and Morton’s neuroma, which occurs near the toes.
An acoustic neuroma occurs on the eighth cranial nerve and affects hearing and balance. In most cases, it is a slowly growing tumor that does not invade nearby tissue. The exact cause is not known. Acoustic neuroma is a type of brain tumor and belongs to the group called schwannomas, or tumors that start in Schwann cells. Schwann cells produce myelin that protects the auditory, or auditory, nerve.
Acoustic neuromas account for about 7% of brain tumors. Usually, these tumors can be removed by surgery and usually do not come back. Radiation treatments are used in some cases to shrink the tumor or to stop it from growing. Without treatment, most patients suffer from deafness. Risks of surgery include permanent numbness and weakness of the face.
Symptoms of an acoustic neuroma should be reported to a doctor and may include hearing loss, ringing in the ears, headache, numbness or weakness on one side of the face, and difficulty standing or walking due to unsteadiness or dizziness . Other possible symptoms are vision irregularities and difficulty understanding speech. Acoustic neuroma occurs more often in women than men and primarily affects adults, with symptoms generally appearing by age 30 or older. Tests used to diagnose acoustic neuroma include hearing and nerve tests and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Morton’s neuroma is thickening of tissue around a nerve at the base of the toes. The primary location is usually between the third and fourth toes. Symptoms include pain and burning sensation in the affected area, numbness and cramps.
A lump may develop at the base of the toes due to swelling and tumor growth. A burning pain in the sole of the foot may also occur. The condition can result from wearing shoes that are high-heeled or too tight, high-impact exercise, or injury. In some cases, there is no clear cause.
Patients with Morton’s neuroma experience a sharp burning pain when walking, especially on hard surfaces and in bare feet. Common home remedies include rest, massage, and roomy footwear. Some patients find relief from custom orthotics, such as arch supports or cushions, and from anti-inflammatory medications and/or cortisone injections. Some cases require surgery. For any foot pain that lasts more than a few days, see your doctor. Prompt treatment can prevent surgery.
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