Painful Neuroma of the Foot: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Surgical Excision

By Dr. M. Ram Prabhu · 7 Jul 2026 · 6 min read

Painful foot neuroma surgery video by Dr. Ram Prabhu.
A guide to painful foot neuromas, including burning nerve pain, clinical assessment, and when peripheral nerve surgery may help.

A neuroma is a painful swelling or abnormal growth involving a nerve. On the foot, it can cause localized tenderness, burning, tingling, or electric-shock-like pain.

Symptoms that need assessment

Persistent pain over a small swelling, sensitivity to touch, altered sensation, or pain after prior trauma or surgery should be examined. The diagnosis may require a focused clinical assessment and, in selected cases, ultrasound or MRI.

When surgery is considered

If a painful neuroma does not respond to appropriate non-surgical treatment, exploration and excision may be considered. The operative plan depends on which nerve is involved, the location, and the cause of pain.

Important expectations

Nerve surgery is individualized. The goal is to reduce pain and improve function, but recovery varies with the nerve, injury history, and healing response.

For an assessment, explore reconstructive plastic surgery services in Hyderabad.

FAQ

Is every foot lump a neuroma?

No. Cysts, soft-tissue tumours, scar tissue, and other conditions can cause a lump or pain.

Can a neuroma cause burning pain?

Yes. Burning, tingling, and electric sensations can occur when a peripheral nerve is involved.

Talk to Dr. Ram Prabhu in Hyderabad

If you would like personalised advice, book a consultation at Idea Clinic, Kondapur.

About the Author

Dr. M. Ram Prabhu is a plastic surgeon with 16+ years of experience and 6,000+ procedures performed. He holds DNB (Super Speciality) Plastic Surgery from the National Board of Examinations, New Delhi (2019). Member of IAAPS and APSI. TSMC Registration #66931. Practices at Idea Clinic, Kondapur, Hyderabad. Read full bio →