Diagnosis

The first step to the detection of a neuroma is obtaining a thorough clinical history and examination. The patient's description of the pain, the location of pain elicited upon examination, and the physical appearance of the foot all contribute to a diagnosis of neuroma. Side to side compression of the foot will generally reproduce pain. Your doctor may be able to elicit a "clicking" sound indicative of neuromas caused by the rubbing of the inflamed nerve between the two metatarsal bones pinching it. A "Sullivan's Sign" refers to the 'V' formation discussed earlier (see Signs and Symptoms) and is another clinical indication of neuroma. X-rays are often used to rule out other pathology. A diagnostic injection of local anesthetic will help your doctor determine the exact location of the neuroma and may help to rule out other pathology. Other non-routine tests such as ultrasonography, computed tomography, nerve conduction velocity, and magnetic resonance imaging may be run if the diagnosis is in question.