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Pinched Nerve in the Foot

Rahul Thadani
There are hundreds of nerves running through the foot, and if you experience a pinched nerve in the foot, there is absolutely nothing to be concerned about. This can be treated easily, if you spot the problem early.
This condition is also known as neuroma, and it can get quite discomforting, if one does not know what the exact cause of the problem is. Since there is no external trauma or wound, it will leave the affected individual perplexed and confused for some time, before he realizes what is really wrong.
The pain usually occurs in the area between the toes, and it can get very painful indeed. This occurs as a direct result of the compression of the nerves in that area, and not due to any kind of growth on the nerve. The sensation that we get when our leg or our arm 'falls asleep', is one of the signs that we have a pinched nerve in our foot, or in the arm.
This condition also arises when some external tissue or muscle presses against the nerve. This is something that can happen at any moment in time. Many people would often mistake this pain for a cramp, but people who have experienced this condition before, will know better.

Causes

There are many different reasons that lead to the onset of this condition, and almost all of them are directly related to some form of physical or strenuous activity. It is very common to get a pinched nerve from running, exercising, and stretching as well.
Excess stretching of the foot may lead to this condition, due to compression and constriction of the nerve. Some ailment affecting the body joints, an external force applied on the foot, or repetitive motions can lead to this condition.

Symptoms

The most obvious of all symptoms is the excruciating pain felt in the region involved. This pain will be greater when the individual wears shoes, or may suddenly appear when the foot turns suddenly, or puts some weight on it. All these signs, along with numbness in foot, are clear indicators that the individual is suffering from a neuroma.
In most cases though, the numbness is the only sign of this condition. We commonly assume that this occurs because the blood flow to that limb has been obstructed, but the reality is that, the numbness occurs as a direct result of a pinched nerve. Tingling in hands and feet is a common occurrence that everyone experiences.
Many people mistakenly think that a neuroma refers to a nerve tumor, this is because the symptoms of a nerve tumor are similar in nature. But you must remember that they are completely different conditions.

Relief and Treatment

To get instant relief from the pain, one needs to stop whatever strenuous activity that is being carried out, and rub the area where the pain is occurring. If there is no pain and only numbness, then simply shaking the limb about, for some time, will solve the problem. To prevent the problem, wear shoes that are comfortable and suit your foot type.
If the problem is a recurring one, then you need to visit a podiatrist who will take a look at the condition, and suggest the most suitable form of treatment. The earlier the condition is diagnosed, the easier it will be to treat.
Depending on the severity of the condition, the specialist may recommend padding and taping to support the foot, orthotic devices; exercises, medication to ease the pain, or some form of surgery to fix the problem permanently. Carefully assess your options and make a decision. Ask the specialist doubts about your condition, before making  your choice.
Many people get a pinched nerve from time to time, so there is no need to be alarmed about this condition. The pain and the numbness may get a bit troublesome at times, but with the right approach you can get rid of this problem.
Disclaimer: This is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.