Joplins Neuritis

What is Joplins Neuritis

Location of the proper medial digital nerve (2)

Causes of Joplins Neuritis

It is thought that Joplins Neuritis is caused by compression of the nerve that runs along the inside of the great toe. This can occur when wearing tight shoes and sometimes with digital deformity.

Diagnosis of Joplins Neuritis

Diagnosis is usually based or symptoms and a complete assessment of your foot and ankle.

At the Ankle and Foot Centre we are able to provide additional information about the presence of a Mortons neuroma with ultrasound imaging – this is difficult due to the small size of the nerve.

Treatment of Joplins Neuritis

Treatment options include:

1. Reduction of the pressure on the nerve
   – Shoe stretching
   – Wider more supportive shoes
2. Reducing the irritation of the nerve
   – Manual massage
   – Injection therapy – Cortisone or Alcohol Sclerosis

What else could it be? (differential diagnosis)

Other problems that can cause similar pain to a neuroma include:

Bunion pain

The Ankle, Foot and Orthotic Centre’s Northcote Podiatrists can help you with all lower limb complaints, including Achilles pain. Make an appointment to get your foot and ankle pain under control.

Expert Podiatrists and Orthotists in the treatment of Achilles problems servicing the areas of Northcote, Thornbury, Fitzroy, North Fitzroy, Carlton, North Carlton, Alphington, Fairfield, Brunswick, Coburg and Preston

Call The Foot and Ankle Centre in Northcote for further advice on professional management and treatment options.

References

1. Still GP, Fowler MB. Joplin’s neuroma or compression neuropathy of the plantar proper digital nerve to the hallux: Clinicopathologic study of three cases. The Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery. 1998;37(6):524-30.
2. Melendez MM, Patel A, Dellon AL. The Diagnosis and Treatment of Joplin’s Neuroma. The Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery. 2016;55(2):320-3.