What is a stump neuroma?

doctor bandaging man with amputated leg | Baltimore Peripheral Nerve Surgeon

A stump neuroma occurs when nerve tissue is severed or detached and attempts to regrow, but since it cannot find the distal ending when doing so, it forms a ball of tissue on the end of the severed nerve instead. Having a limb amputation can result in a stump neuroma. It can also occur as a complication from surgery such as Morton’s neurectomy. A peripheral nerve specialist can offer a variety of treatments such as neuroma resection that can eliminate pain from a stump neuroma.

Stump Neuroma Symptoms

Stump neuromas can cause the same symptoms you experienced before having surgery and often worsen over time. The symptoms can become severe and debilitating and interfere with your daily activities. Stump neuromas have similar symptoms to a neuroma and can cause the following:

  • Shooting pain
  • Burning
  • Tingling
  • Numbness

Symptoms from a stump neuroma can intensify and worsen when doing certain activities such as walking or when bearing weight on the affected foot. Wearing certain shoes can also aggravate the symptoms.

Treatment Options for a Stump Neuroma

A stump neuroma that is caused by an injury to the nerve during surgery or amputation can be treated in a variety of ways. A nerve specialist may recommend first trying conservative treatment options for a stump neuroma that include:

  • Cryotherapy
  • Radiofrequency ablation with or without a biologic
  • Injection of stem cells or steroids
  • Laser therapy
  • Custom orthotics

If conservative treatments do not provide relief, revision surgery may be needed to provide relief and reduce pressure from the neuroma. One procedure that can be done is neuroma resection which surgically removes the damaged nerve tissue. Dr. Williams has had much success in treating pain from neuromas, and many of his patients report that they are now pain-free and no longer require daily pain medication.

Contact a Peripheral Nerve Specialist

If you are experiencing symptoms of a stump neuroma, contact Dr. Williams for a consultation today. Dr. Williams can design a treatment plan to fit your specific needs that can relieve pain and discomfort from a neuroma. To schedule an appointment in the Baltimore office, contact us at (410) 709-3868 or fill out our contact form online.

Eric H. Williams MD
Specializing in reconstructive surgery and pain relief in the Greater Baltimore area.