Neuroma, or Morton's neuroma, is a foot condition caused by a thickening of the nerves between the toes. It often occurs in nerves that run between the long bones in the foot, and is most commonly found bound between the third and fourth toes. This condition often manifests itself through pain or numbness in the feet, and gets worse with walking or running. Always talk to your doctor to determine whether your foot pain is the result of a more serious condition that requires medical treatment.
Ankle Flexion and Extension
Ankle movement exercises are commonly prescribed for neuroma, according to PhysioAdvisor.com. This exercise is performed by resting your leg on a bench, table or bed with your foot and ankle hanging over the edge. Flex and extend your ankle by moving the top of your foot up and down as far as you can without pain. Perform 10 to 20 exercises per set, and do three sets daily or as prescribed by your therapist or doctor.
Ankle Pronation and Supination/Ankle Circles
Pronation and supination exercises are similar to flexion and extension exercises, but are performed by moving your foot from side to side without moving your toes up and down. Turn your ankle in as far as it will go as is you were trying to turn over your foot to look at the sole. Hold this position as directed by your doctor, then reverse the motion and turn your foot outward as far as possible. Repeat 10 times or as directed by your doctor, then roll your ankle in as large a circle as possible. Repeat the circling motion 10 times or as directed by your physician.
Foot Massage/Toe Manipulation
This exercise is generally performed during the second week following surgery to correct your condition, and is recommended by Dr. Ronald Smith of the Balance Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Center in Long Beach, California. It is performed by grasping your foot with your hands in such a way that your metatarsals -- or the long bones that attach your toes to your ankles -- and the joints in your toes can be manually manipulated. Squeeze your foot gently with your hands -- but without causing serious pain -- to increase blood flow to the area. Smith recommends performing four or five sets a day or as directed by your doctor. This exercise should be followed by movement exercises that include using your hands to move your toes up and down as directed by your doctor.
