Nerve Pain
When you injure your foot or ankle, nearby nerves send signals to your brain, which is your body’s natural way of alerting you that something is wrong. However, when the nerves themselves are irritated, compressed, or diseased, the pain can feel very different. Patients often describe sensations such as burning, freezing, tingling, electric shocks, jabbing pains, or extreme sensitivity. In more advanced cases, you may lose sensation entirely, making it difficult to detect injuries until they have already become serious.
Common Nerve Conditions in the Feet and Ankles
Several neurological conditions can affect the feet and ankles, each with its own causes and patterns of discomfort. Getting an early diagnosis is essential, especially because untreated nerve damage can lead to permanent loss of function.
Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is a gradual, progressive form of nerve deterioration. Symptoms often begin with mild, occasional discomfort, then develop into consistent burning, tingling, and numbness. As the condition worsens, sensation decreases, making injuries easier to miss and harder to heal.
Although peripheral neuropathy can be caused by vitamin deficiencies, genetics, alcohol abuse, and other medical conditions, diabetes is the most common cause, especially when blood sugar is not well controlled. Symptoms typically appear in the toes and feet first before moving upward, and in some cases may also affect motor function, balance, or digestion.
Neuromas (Including Morton’s Neuroma)
A neuroma is a thickened bundle of nerve tissue that forms in response to chronic irritation. The most common type, Morton’s neuroma, develops in the ball of the foot between the toes. It can feel as though you are stepping on a pebble or walking on a folded sock, even when your shoe is perfectly smooth.
Neuromas are often linked to repeated pressure on the forefoot, high heels, tight or pointed shoes, and certain foot deformities such as hammertoes or bunions. Without treatment, symptoms often intensify and interfere with normal walking.
Nerve Compression & Entrapment
Nerves travel through narrow anatomical spaces, such as the tarsal tunnel on the inner side of the ankle. When injury, inflammation, swelling, or repetitive stress reduces the space inside these tunnels, the nerve becomes compressed. This can lead to burning pain, tingling, or electric shock–like sensations. As with neuropathy, long-standing nerve compression can eventually cause numbness or permanent damage if left untreated.
Treatment for Foot & Ankle Nerve Pain
Nerves are delicate structures, and once injury progresses too far, it may not be reversible. That’s why early evaluation and personalized treatment are critical. Once we determine the underlying cause—whether neuropathy, compression, injury, or a neuroma—we create a plan focused on symptom relief, restoring function, and preventing further nerve injury.
Treatment options may include:
- Managing underlying conditions such as diabetes
- Improving nutritional support for nerve health
- Using physical therapy to restore mobility and circulation
- Footwear changes, orthotics, or targeted medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, nerve pain medications, or other specialty prescriptions.
In rare cases where conservative care is not enough, surgical intervention may be considered. Procedures can include removing a neuroma, decompressing a pinched nerve, or addressing structural issues that contribute to nerve irritation.
Every patient receives an individualized plan that reflects their diagnosis, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
Get Expert Care for Nerve Pain in Irving, TX
Foot and ankle nerve pain should never be ignored. If you’re experiencing burning, tingling, numbness, or shooting pain, we are here to help. We understand how frustrating nerve pain can be, and we’ll work with you to find the most effective path forward. Call (972) 254-0680 to schedule an appointment with our team at Irving Foot & Ankle, or request a visit through our online contact form. Early care is the best way to protect your long-term nerve health and keep you moving comfortably.