If you’re experiencing tingling, burning, or stabbing pain in your feet, it’s easy to get confused about what’s causing it. Two common culprits are neuropathy and neuroma. Though they sound similar, they’re very different in cause, location, treatment, and impact. Here’s how to tell them apart—and what you can do about them.
What is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is the term for nerve damage, most often caused by an underlying condition like diabetes. It commonly affects the feet and hands and tends to be symmetrical—meaning it appears on both sides.
Below are some of the most common causes of neuropathy:
- Diabetes, especially if poorly managed
- Excessive alcohol use
- Side effects of chemotherapy
- Autoimmune disorders
- Infections such as shingles or Lyme disease
- Nutritional deficiencies, particularly vitamin B12
- Exposure to toxic substances or certain medications
People living with neuropathy often describe a mix of sensory and motor symptoms. These may include:
- A tingling or pins-and-needles sensation
- Burning or sharp pain
- Numbness in the toes or fingers
- Muscle weakness or loss of coordination
- Trouble balancing, especially in the dark or on uneven surfaces
If you’re looking for non-invasive treatment tips, these home remedies for neuropathy foot pain can offer daily relief strategies. Supportive footwear also makes a difference—explore options like diabetes-friendly shoes or orthopedic shoes designed for neuropathy.
What is a Neuroma?
A neuroma is not general nerve damage but rather a localized nerve enlargement or thickening—often due to chronic irritation or stress. The most well-known example is Morton’s neuroma, which forms between the third and fourth toes.
See: What is Neuroma at the Mayo Clinic
Common causes of a neuroma include:
- Wearing tight or narrow-toed shoes
- High-impact sports or repetitive foot stress
- Abnormal gait or foot structure (e.g., flat feet or high arches)
- Pressure from poorly cushioned footwear
This type of foot pain is typically localized and can feel very different from neuropathy. People with a neuroma often report:
- A burning or stabbing pain in the ball of the foot
- A feeling like there’s a pebble or fold in your sock
- Tingling or numbness that radiates to the toes
- Pain that worsens with walking or wearing snug shoes
For a deep dive into this condition, read What is Morton’s Neuroma? and this ultimate guide to Morton’s neuroma. To distinguish it from other causes of forefoot pain, check out Morton’s neuroma vs. metatarsalgia.
If you suspect this condition, proper footwear is key. Browse the best shoes for Morton’s neuroma to relieve pressure on the affected nerve.
Key Differences at a Glance
Here’s a quick reference table to compare neuropathy and neuroma side by side:
Feature | Neuropathy | Neuroma |
|---|---|---|
Area affected | Often both feet or hands | Usually one localized spot between toes |
Symptom onset | Gradual and progressive | May start subtly, triggered by activity |
Symptoms | Burning, tingling, numbness, weakness | Localized burning, sharp pain, tingling toes |
Common causes | Systemic conditions (e.g., diabetes) | Repeated pressure, injury, poor footwear |
Treatment focus | Underlying health management, support | Footwear change, orthotics, injections, rest |
When to Get Help
If you’re not sure whether your foot pain is neuropathy or neuroma, the best thing to do is consult a podiatrist or neurologist. Early diagnosis means you can start the right treatment plan and avoid further damage.
In the meantime, investing in the right footwear, using daily home care methods, and staying aware of symptom triggers can go a long way in managing both conditions.
