Bumps on the Feet: Granuloma or Neuroma?

When you feel a “bump on your foot,” that can signal many different conditions, two of which are granulomas and neuromas. While the names sound very similar, the two conditions are completely different with their own unique causes and treatments. Being able to tell them apart is an important first step before deciding how to address the issue. Here’s what you need to know about granulomas and neuromas, including how to determine which one you have:

What is a granuloma?

A granuloma is a small, visible growth that forms on the skin, often in response to irritation, injury, or infection. It’s a type of localized inflammation that happens when a cluster of white blood cells tries to “wall off” or “trap” something the body is fighting. Granulomas are most commonly seen near ingrown toenails, where the constant friction and digging into the skin cause the skin to form a raised red bump. Unlike neuromas, granulomas are visible. They may also bleed easily, ooze or feel tender to the touch.

What is a neuroma?

A neuroma is thickened, irritated nerve tissue in the ball of the foot, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. It happens as a result of increased pressure, excess compression or repeat trauma. Think tight, improperly fitting shoes, high-impact sports and foot deformities. Neuromas don’t feel like a bump on the feet as much as they feel like a bump in the feet. Instead of a visible skin growth, neuromas are often described as a burning, tingling or numbing sensation, or, most commonly, the feeling of a pebble stuck inside the shoe.

Differences at a Glance

The easiest way to tell the difference between a granuloma and a neuroma is by looking and feeling. A granuloma is a physical growth you can see and touch on the skin’s surface, usually tied to a source of irritation, like an ingrown toenail. A neuroma isn’t visible at all, and the “bump” is purely a sensation caused by the irritation to the nerve, triggered or worsened by excess pressure. Where you’re feeling the pain is also important. Unlike neuromas, granulomas don’t usually appear on the bottom of the feet, but instead on the top or the sides. Neuromas almost always appear on the bottom of the feet, where there’s the most pressure.

When to See a Podiatrist

Whether you’re dealing with a granuloma or a neuroma, a podiatrist can help. If you go in to treat a granuloma, your podiatrist will make sure it’s actually a granuloma and not another type of skin growth, and they’ll safely treat or remove it using non-invasive in-office procedures. If you have a neuroma, your podiatrist may recommend conservative care, like activity and footwear changes, or more intensive care, like injections, specialized therapies or surgical intervention.

Having a foot bump, whether it feels like it’s on or in the foot, is never pleasant. If you need help with a granuloma or neuroma, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Coppell podiatrists at North Texas Foot & Ankle. Call us at (214) 574-9255 or book an appointment online at our Irving office, and we’ll help you get back on your feet!