Question

what aspects of a neuroma can contribute to a chronic pain syndrome?

Answer 1

After nerve injury and regeneration,significant pain may be associated with the scar and altered sensation observed within the distribution of the injured nerve.A bulbous swelling may form at the severed nerve end, constituting a traumatic neuroma. The development of a painful neuroma may be more disabling to the patient than an area of anesthesia or even loss of motor function.

A neuroma is a disorganized growth of nerve cells at the site of a nerve injury.

A neuroma occurs after a nerve is partially or completely disrupted by an injury either due to a cut, a crush, or an excessive stretch.

The neuroma is a ball-shaped mass at the site of the injury,which can be painful or cause a tingling sensation if tapped or if pressure is applied. Although not always the case, a neuroma can be extremely painful and can cause significant loss of function for the patient by limiting motion and contact with the affected area.

Neuromas can occur after trauma and even after surgery in any region in the body since most areas have nerve fibers providing feeling.

Painful neuromas are common after amputations in the hand and upper extremity (arm) and in the lower extremity (leg). They are also seen following hernia repair in the groin.

In some cases, the pain associated with neuromas can cause a more generalized pain in the region of the injury. While the injury may have been localized just to the nerve, over time the pain can migrate to the non-injured adjacent skin, which becomes painful to the touch.

Other changes in the affected area can include changes in circulation, hair growth and/or hair loss, changes in sweat production, and even decreased bone density. If these changes are associated with a neuroma, often the treatment of the neuroma can help to decrease pain as well as these other signs and symptoms.